A former Latter-day Saint missionary who pleaded guilty to a felony charge after sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl has been ordered into a prison treatment programme instead of receiving an immediate lengthy prison sentence.
Krew Zaugg, 22, appeared before an Idaho court on 26 October 2026, where District Judge Michael Whyte sentenced him to a retained-jurisdiction programme. The arrangement requires him to undergo treatment and rehabilitation in a correctional facility for up to one year before the court decides on a sentence.
What Happened to the 15-Year-Old Girl?
The incident dates back on 4 May 2025 to 5 May 2025, when Zaugg allegedly picked up the teenager after the two communicated through Snapchat. According to statements presented in court, the girl had told him she was 15 before they met. Her mother later described how the teenager was unable to escape from Zaugg's Tesla because the vehicle's doors were locked.
The assault was described by the family as violent and forceful, leaving the girl with physical injuries and significant emotional distress. Zaugg was arrested on 29 May 2025, after a warrant was issued in connection with the incident. He was initially charged with rape of a victim under 16 and lewd conduct with a child under 16. He was released after posting a $75,000 bond.
However, in June 2026, Zaugg entered a plea agreement with prosecutors. He pleaded guilty to an amended felony charge of battery with intent to commit a serious felony, while prosecutors agreed to dismiss the lewd conduct charge. The plea agreement did not include a recommended sentence, leaving the final decision to the judge.
Victim's Family Describes Lasting Trauma
In a letter read aloud in court, she described how the assault had changed even the simplest parts of her daily routine. She said she had barely left the house following her grandfather's death and had agreed to meet Zaugg because she wanted to spend time with a friend.
Her sister also spoke about the circumstances leading up to the meeting, recalling that the teenager was looking for companionship when she connected with Zaugg.
After the incident, she struggled to sleep alone, choosing the couch because it allowed her to remain closer to her family. She also said she took Benadryl to avoid waking up in a panic. Her mother said she had become withdrawn, developed trust issues involving men, and experienced panic attacks.
The family also raised concerns about the reaction from the wider community. The mother alleged that Zaugg's family and friends had harassed the teenager online, while the girl described becoming a target of jokes and ridicule.
The hearing itself reflected the divide surrounding the case. More than 40 people reportedly attended in support of Zaugg, occupying one side of the courtroom, while the teenager's relatives sat on the other, according to East Idaho News. Four family members submitted statements describing the lasting impact of the assault.
Prosecutors Wanted a Potential 20-Year Sentence
During the hearing, prosecutor Steven Haderlie argued that Zaugg's actions warranted a substantial prison sentence. The prosecution recommended four years of fixed incarceration followed by 16 indeterminate years, potentially resulting in a total sentence of 20 years.
Haderlie emphasised that Zaugg was already an adult while the girl was a freshman in high school. According to the prosecutor, he had been given an opportunity to clarify her age before arranging to meet her. He also argued that the sentence should serve as a warning to others who might disregard the age of minors when pursuing sexual encounters.
Zaugg Blamed His Emotional State for the Incident
When given the opportunity to address the court, Zaugg spoke about his emotional state on the night of the incident. He was feeling sad, lonely, and miserable, and acknowledged that he had lied to investigators following his arrest because he was frightened of the consequences. Zaugg told the judge that he regretted his actions and hoped the court would consider the person he wanted to become.
Before delivering the sentence, Judge Whyte addressed the reported online harassment directed at the teenager and her family. He told Zaugg that he expected him to confront anyone among his supporters who continued making disparaging remarks about the victim.
'The term 'victim' is used for a reason. That person was a victim of your actions,' Whyte said.
What Happens After the Treatment Programme?
Under Idaho's retained-jurisdiction system, Zaugg will spend up to one year in a correctional facility undergoing treatment and rehabilitation. Once the programme is completed, Judge Whyte will review his progress and decide whether to release him on probation or require him to serve the underlying prison sentence of four years fixed and up to 10 years indeterminate, potentially totalling 14 years.
The judge also ordered Zaugg to register as a sex offender, pay at least $4,000 in fines and court fees, and refrain from contacting the teenager for 14 years.
