Minnesota Man Pleads Not Guilty to Criminal Sexual Conduct Charges

ROSEAU COUNTY, Minn. – Colton Johnathon Skare, 19, of menahga, Minnesota, pleaded not guilty Monday, Dec. 22, to two counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct for allegedly raping a 12-year-old girl in Warroad.

Skare faces up to 30 years in prison for the crimes, though Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines recommend between 12 and 30 years, depending on his criminal history.

Skare was charged after he and a codefendant, Leeroy Elmer Kicker, were reported to law enforcement by a parent who said she found the two in her 13-year-old daughter’s bedroom, according to a statement of probable cause. She alleged they were in the room with her daughter and daughter’s 12-year-old friend.

Skare fled the scene before law enforcement arrived but was apprehended by a Roseau County sheriff’s deputy at a warroad convenience store, the statement said.

The 12-year-old girl stated she met Skare on a social media app. She and her friend had allowed him and Kicker inside their home previously, and engaged in sex acts, but both girls said none occurred the night they were found together in the bedroom, the statement said.

During an interview, Skare admitted to engaging in sex acts with the child but claimed he believed she was 18 years old. At the time of the alleged offenses, Skare was 18.

His next court appearance, a pre-trial, is scheduled for 2 p.m.Jan. 26.

Kicker, 21, pleaded guilty in October to an amended lesser charge of second-degree criminal sexual conduct. His sentencing is scheduled for 2 p.m. Feb. 23.