Parole bid by man who shot at cop breeds controversy

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho -- An Idaho Falls councilwoman and some local law enforcement officials are at odds over her testifying in favor of paroling a man who shot at an officer in 2010.

The Post Register reports Franklin Crazythunder pleaded guilty to aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, enhanced by the use of a deadly weapon in the commission of a felony. He's been serving a sentence up to 15 years.

Councilwoman Barbara Ehardt testified Tuesday in support of his parole.

Local Fraternal Order of Police national trustee Brad Landes opposed parole at the hearing. He said Ehardt works for the city, and yet supports someone who tried to kill an officer.

Ehardt says Crazythunder is like an adopted member of her family. She knew him as a child, but they lost touch when he was about 13 years old.

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Information from: Post Register, http://www.postregister.com