Girl's parents charged with endangering

PALMER -- The mother and father of a 15-year-old girl who became pregnant by her 31-year-old boyfriend have been charged in Palmer District Court with endangering the welfare of a minor.

The father, 40, and mother, 37, both knew and approved of the sexual relationship that has continued since early this year, according to charging documents. The boyfriend occasionally lives in the family's Wasilla-area home, court papers indicate.

The parents were arrested by Alaska State Troopers on June 20 and taken to Mat-Su Pre-Trial Facility. The crime is a Class C felony punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of not more than $50,000.

The couple pled not guilty June 21 in District Court. They were scheduled to appear Friday afternoon at the Palmer courthouse.

When questioned by troopers, the mother said she knew her daughter was pregnant "and did not see a problem," according to a report by trooper Ron Hayes. "In her opinion it was okay because the Bible said it was okay. She didn't care what the law states and thought she was the one who should decide who her kids can be in love with."

The girl's father apparently had more hesitancy.

"At first he didn't know what to think about it, but consulted the Bible and concluded it was okay," Hayes' report said.

The daughter was taken to the Women's Health Care Center, where her pregnancy was confirmed. She told a friend on June 17 that she was eight weeks pregnant, court papers said.

When interviewed by troopers, the boyfriend said they intend to keep the child because they are in love.

The alleged crime came to light from a tip by an adult whose 15-year-old daughter is a friend of the alleged victim, according to Hayes' report. The report said the boyfriend is a cousin of the alleged victim.

The girl went to Arkansas in late 2002 and returned with the 31-year-old man, according to Hayes' report.