Newman admits sexual addiction

BOISE -- A man who lured a woman to a west Boise park using a free iPod on Craiglist as his bait will spend up to 15 years in prison.

In July, an Ada County jury had convicted Stephen Newman, 33, of attempted rape.

During today's sentencing, Newman addressed the court with his mother and father sitting just 10-feet behind him.

"I would just like deeply apologize to everybody that I hurt. I know that I have problem with sexual addiction and fantasies and that lead to this issue, and I'm anxious to get help," said Newman.

Fourth District Court Judge Mike Wetherell ordered Newman to serve at least seven and a half years behind bars before he is eligible for parole.

Gretchan Hellar, 28, responded to the ad in July 2007 but became suspicious when Newman told her to go to a porta potty at McDevitt Park off Eagle Road after dark to claim the iPod.

She alerted police when she noticed a vehicle in the park. Police came and questioned Newman. They found a stocking cap, knife, bb gun, gloves and other items to tie someone up.

Prosecutors called her actions herioc.

During the trial, a computer forensic expert found simulated rape videos on Newman's laptop, and some videos including himself.

Prosecutor Shelley Armstrong says Newman wanted to take his fascination with the crime one step further, and he used Craigslist to try and lure an intended rape victim.

Heller said she was suspicious from the beginning and even felt silly for calling police.

Newman's attorney says they will appeal the sentence.