Bannock County Man James Dean Mettler Charged With Rape

James Dean Mettler, a 25-year-old man from Bannock County, faces a potential life sentence and fines of up to $100,000 after being charged with rape and intimidating, impeding, influencing or preventing the attendance of a witness.

Details of the Alleged Assault

The charges stem from an incident on the night of Oct. 23. Court documents indicate that Mettler and the victim had met at a homeless shelter in Bannock County. The victim’s family later invited Mettler to stay with them at a hotel on the condition that he assist with the rent.

According to the victim, she and Mettler were not in a romantic relationship. Documents state that while the victim was drowsy due to prescription medication, Mettler allegedly sexually assaulted her during the night while she was unable to resist. The victim further reported that Mettler had threatened to hurt her family if police were involved earlier that day.

Police Arrest Mettler After Conflicting Accounts of Assault

Following the disclosure of the assault to her family, Mettler was removed from the room and law enforcement was contacted. Pocatello Police Department officers located Mettler around 11 p.m. on Oct. 23 in a Burger King parking lot. He was taken to Portneuf Medical Center for evaluation after allegedly stating he felt suicidal and homicidal.

Bannock County Man James Dean Mettler Charged With Rape

During interviews with police, court documents state that Mettler’s account of the event shifted. He allegedly first denied any sexual contact, then stated he and the victim had intercourse before an argument. While he initially told officers the encounter was consensual, he later allegedly admitted that the victim told him to stop and he persisted. At one point, Mettler allegedly told police to “just take me to f****** jail.”

Upon arrival at the Bannock County Detention Center, Mettler allegedly told staff he “accidentally raped” someone when asked about medical conditions or injuries.