A Sandpoint resident has entered a guilty plea to voluntary manslaughter in connection with the death of his grandfather in January, resolving what was originally scheduled to proceed to trial this month.
Jeremiah John Ross Kiley, 30, pleaded guilty June 16 under a Rule 11 agreement, accepting responsibility for the death of Joseph Reyes, 70, in a Samuels area residence. The charge reflects a killing committed in the heat of passion without malice or premeditation, distinguishing it from a murder charge that would require proof of deliberate intent.
The January Incident
The fatal altercation occurred on the evening of January 5. According to statements Kiley provided to authorities after his arrest on January 6, Reyes became aggressive despite taking medication for schizophrenia. Kiley told police that his grandfather pointed a gun at him during what he described as a “schizophrenic episode,” prompting him to fear for his safety.
Kiley stated he acted to protect himself, claiming he was concerned Reyes would access additional firearms stored in the shared residence. He reported using a hatchet in the confrontation. In his 911 call on January 6, Kiley initially claimed self-defense and said he acted to “stop his suffering.”
Plea Agreement Terms
Under the plea deal, Kiley has waived his right to appeal the sentencing decision. However, if the court departs from the prosecutor’s recommended sentence, Kiley may appeal that departure.
Bonner County Prosecutor Louis Marshall has agreed to recommend a total sentence of 30 years—15 years fixed and 15 years indeterminate. The fixed portion would represent the minimum time Kiley must serve before becoming eligible for parole consideration.
The guilty plea vacates the jury trial that had been scheduled for July 20.
What Comes Next
Sentencing is scheduled for September 8 at 1:30 p.m. At that hearing, the judge will consider the prosecutor’s recommendation and any other factors before imposing the final sentence. The outcome will resolve a case that has occupied Bonner County courts since the January arrest.
For additional information on law enforcement matters in Bonner County, see the Bonner County Sheriff and Sandpoint Police Log.