The Conclusion, just an FYI

Parker Sentenced in Robbery Case
This document was published online on Thursday, June 05, 2008 By Sven Berg/Staff writer

The Jerome man who twice robbed Zions Bank in Burley last fall was sentenced Wednesday to a prison term of 15 to 30 years. Cassia County 5th District Judge Michael Crabtree sentenced Steven Parker, 33, to several prison terms for crimes relating to the 2007 robberies, but ordered the sentences to be served at the same time. In addition to prison time, Parker is responsible for paying more than $23,000 in restitution to Zions Bank, as well as $4,000 in fines. Cassia County Deputy Prosecutor Blaine Cannon said Zions Bank can request garnishment of any money Parker makes at a prison job, but he was not optimistic about the quick recovery of the full $23,000 owed the bank. “Realistically, I wouldn’t expect that you’ll see much,” Cannon said. Parker was on probation for robbing the Burley Zions Bank on Aug. 21, 2001 when he robbed it again on Sept. 12, 2007, making off with more than $17,000. He got away cleanly that time, but just a month later, he robbed the bank a third time. As he drove away from the bank in a stolen pickup, several members of the public, having heard reports of the robbery on police scanners, reported his location and direction of travel. Cassia County Sheriff’s Deputy Eric Nebeker and other officers followed Parker across fields, highways and dirt roads on a chase that ended when Parker drove into a flooded canal west of Murtaugh. Addressing Nebeker on Wednesday, a tearful Parker pleaded forgiveness, calling his actions “inexcusable.”“Sir, I recognize you,” Parker said. “I’m sorry I put your life in danger. I’m sorry from the bottom of my heart and I ask you to forgive me.” Parker also apologized to several Zions Bank employees in attendance at the hearing, as well as to the state of Idaho. Bank employees declined to comment following the hearing. Crabtree said he believed Parker’s apologies were sincere, but the facts of the case warranted a severe sentencing. “What’s it going to take to restore you to balance with society?” he said. Cannon said he was satisfied Parker had received a fair sentence. Parker’s attorney, Tim Schneider, said his client had hoped to receive fewer determinate years on his sentence. “He feels he has something to contribute to society,” he said.
Sven Berg may be reached at 208-677-8764 or sberg@southidahopress.com.

Aren't people just to much sometimes? I must repeat myself, I mean, really? Really?