Two plead not guilty to taking girl to California

A pair of California men accused of transporting a 12-year-old Evergreen girl to their home state pleaded not guilty to felony charges Thursday in Flathead District Court.

Edgard “Eddie” Le, 28, of Escondido, Calif., is charged with custodial interference. Dennis Nelson, 37, of San Diego is charged with accountability to custodial interference.

The duo are accused of renting a car in San Diego and driving to Evergreen on Valentine’s Day, picking up Jasmine Walker and driving back to California. They were apprehended by the FBI and California Highway Patrol that evening in Victorville, Calif.

Le and Walker reportedly had been in an online relationship for about a month. Nelson rented the vehicle and drove.

If convicted, each man faces up to 10 years in jail and fines of up to $50,000. They also may face federal charges.

The next scheduled hearing for each man’s case is set for May 9.