Hauser Lake, ID- A tragic incident that occurred near Hauser Lake last year has concluded with a 45-year-old man, Adam Bennett, being sentenced to 20 years to life in prison. The sentencing follows Bennett's guilty plea earlier this year, which included charges of second-degree murder, aggravated battery, two counts of aggravated assault, and unlawful possession of a firearm. In exchange for his plea, charges of grand theft of a firearm and possession of a stolen vehicle were dropped.
District Judge Susie Jensen handed down the sentence on September 15, marking the end of a painful chapter for the victims and their families.
The incident began on February 28, 2022, when authorities received reports of a large barn fire at the property of Dennis Rogers, a 77-year-old resident of 8964 N. Hauser Lake Road, according to court documents.
JoAnne Rogers, Dennis Rogers' widow, recounted that she and her husband were watching television when Dennis went outside. Shortly after, he returned to the house, urgently instructing his wife to call 911 due to the barn being ablaze.
While JoAnne Rogers dialed 911, Dennis Rogers returned outside. Tragically, he was shot in the head and found unconscious near a fence along the driveway, as detailed in court records.
Three Good Samaritans, John Hazell Jr., Jesse Reed, and Hammond Bradford, who were nearby at the time, responded to the fire and discovered Dennis Rogers in distress. Hazell recalled hearing a man in the pasture near the burning barn ordering him to stay away before shooting him in the left leg. In fear for their safety, Hazell, Reed, and Bradford fled the scene.
Bennett, the assailant, also fled but was apprehended at a nearby asphalt business. He was allegedly driving a stolen white Ford Ranger pickup, as indicated by court documents.
JoAnne Rogers revealed that her husband was already in poor physical health before the shooting. He had undergone multiple surgeries and radiation treatments for cancer and was preparing for another surgery at the time of the incident. She expressed the hope that he now rests in peace with God.
The couple had been married for approximately 24 years, during which Dennis Rogers had held various jobs. He most recently ran a small painting business where he and his employees painted residential and commercial spaces.
"He always cared about people," JoAnne Rogers said of her late husband. Her primary wish is for Bennett, a convicted felon, to be incarcerated for life to ensure the safety of others. She also hopes that Bennett finds redemption and peace during his time in prison.
Comments / 0