Charges Reduced Against Former Minidoka Deputy

RUPERT, Idaho (AP) — Charges have been reduced against a former Minidoka County deputy accused of punching a sheriff's captain.

The Times-News reports in a story on Thursday that 51-year-old James Broner is charged with misdemeanor battery on an officer and misdemeanor unlawful entry.

Broner initially faced a charge of felony assault or battery on a law enforcement officer, which carries up to 30 years in prison.

Authorities say Broner in December went to the home of Minidoka County sheriff's Capt. Daniel Guy Kindig, knocked on the door and, after a brief conversation, punched Kindig and broke his nose.

Broner had been scheduled to go to trial on the felony charge on Wednesday.

Now he's scheduled to change his plea and be sentenced May 1 in 5th District Court.