Kimberling denied 10-day jail furlough

A motion for a 10-day furlough from jail by Kent W. Kimberling, who was jailed Aug. 6 after deputies received reports of threats he had made against others and later allegedly confiscated loaded guns and a cannon at a residence where he was residing in Garfield, was denied Friday morning in superior court. Kimberling, 61, had submitted a list of items which he wanted to accomplish while on the proposed 10-day release.

After his arrest, Kimberling was denied consideration of pre-trial release until he underwent a mental health evaluation which was to be presented to the court.

Prosecutor Denis Tracy told the court Friday Palouse River Counseling reported they are not able to evaluate an inmate as to whether or not they are a potential threat to the community.

Among his reasons for his furlough request, Kimberling said he needs to arrange to move his trailer in Garfield or lose possession of it. He also said he needed to take care of his mother and prepare wood to burn for the upcoming winter.

Tracy repeated some of the items in the sheriff’s arrest report to point out Kimberling could be a threat to the public if released. He noted Kimberling has been charged with harassment, but he also made threats against police officers and had taken steps to carry out the threats.

Tracy at one point, after noting Palouse police officers were among potential victims threatened by Kimberling, told the court Kimberling had the cannon pointed at the front door entrance to the house where he was residing.

Kimberling denied the allegation with an outburst in court.

Tracy also said the alleged victim of the harassment has children attending school in Garfield, and Kimberling’s mother resides across from the school. Tracy added Kimberling’s siblings have contacted him and said they don’t want him residing with their mother.

At the Aug. 27 Palouse City Council meeting, Chief Jerry Neumann reported the department has had “dealings with this man over the years.”

Palouse Police also serve Garfield.

Kimberling is now scheduled for trial Oct. 14.