What you might have missed: Abuse charge dismissed, weed laws, Wahooz expansion
From a dismissed sex-abuse case against a Caldwell coach to a major Boise State contract extension, here are the top stories from the Idaho Statesman for Monday, April 20. The day’s coverage also hit cannabis laws, a Wahooz expansion, a building renaming and a basketball transfer.
Here are key takeaways:
• A Canyon County judge dismissed a felony child sexual abuse charge against former Caldwell football coach Kip Crofts after prosecutors learned the classroom door was locked during an alleged masturbation incident, making intent difficult to prove. The parents of the student involved have filed a civil case against Crofts and the Caldwell School District. Reporting by Sally Krutzig
• Cannabis remains fully illegal in Idaho, and possessing more than three ounces can bring a felony charge with up to five years in prison and $10,000 in fines. A ballot initiative effort to legalize medical cannabis has collected more than 100,000 signatures ahead of an April 30 deadline. Reporting by Hali Smith
• Wahooz Family Fun Zone in Meridian announced a 52,000-square-foot indoor electric go-karting arena with three tracks and 72 karts capable of reaching 40 mph. The center plans to break ground in July and open around October 2027. Reporting by Rose Evans
• Boise State football coach Spencer Danielson signed a contract extension through the 2030 season, adding one year to his existing deal. His record as head coach is 24-8, including three Mountain West championships. Reporting by Shaun Goodwin
• Boise State will rename its Student Union Building after Westmark Credit Union agreed to contribute more than $8.5 million over 10 years to the university. Reporting by Sally Krutzig
• Boise native and former Broncos forward Drew Fielder plans to transfer to Alabama, joining a Top 25 SEC program after leading Boise State in scoring at 14.7 points per game last season. His commitment was reported by On3. Reporting by Shaun Goodwin
The summary points above were compiled with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists. The source reporting referenced above was written and edited entirely by journalists.