Rupert Sex Offender To Get New Trial

A Rupert man who was convicted of child sex crimes three years ago will be getting a new trial for part of the original charges.  James Pepcorn Sr. is a former Cassia County teacher.  In 2008 he was convicted of child sex crimes against family members.  The new trial involves two of the original felony charges after the Idaho Court of Appeals ruled Tuesday that Pepcorn’s convictions for rape and lewd conduct were arrived at after the court allowed testimony regarding prior incidents not related to those charges.  One original charge of lewd conduct with a minor was upheld by the court so he will remain in prison to serve his life sentence.  He’s eligible for parole in 2028.  Pepcorn taught school in Cassia County for nearly 30 years and was also a church leader and a Boy Scout leader.