Man pleads innocent to molestation

The Daily Inter Lake

A Hungry Horse man accused of molesting a 13-year-old girl has pleaded innocent.

During his arraignment Tuesday in Flathead County District Court, James Edward Whitaker, 46, entered a not-guilty plea to one count of felony sexual assault .

According to court documents, the alleged molestation occurred in late August at the girl's home. Prosecutors allege Whitaker inappropriately touched the 13-year-old girl and exposed himself to her.

Deputies acting on a tip tailed Whitaker as he left church Dec. 7 and took him into custody following a traffic stop, investigators said.

If convicted, Whitaker faces up to 100 years in prison and a $50,000 fine. His trial is scheduled for the March jury term.