Dasen Bid for Bail Denied Bail

By Hal Herring, 6-15-05

Richard A. "Dick" Dasen, the one-time Flathead Valley business leader who was convicted last month on felony charges of sexual abuse, prostitution and promotion of prostitution, will remain in the Flathead County Jail, at least until his sentencing July 18.

Dasen's attorney, George Best, filed a motion to have Dasen released pending sentencing, citing among other reasons his client's need for daily exercise due to heart problems. Prosecutors have repeatedly said that Dasen is a flight risk and and a threat to the community and should remain incarcerated, and on Wednesday, following a procession of witnesses called by Best and the prosecution, Judge Stewart Stadler agreed with them.

According to prosecutor Dan Guzynski, although the defense witnesses testified to Dasen's longstanding reputation for honoring business debts and personal commitments, Dasen's recent actions, including transferring ownership in stocks and real estate to his wife and children, cast doubt on his intentions. "It was clear that he was hiding assets," Guzynski said, "and that is not evidence of good faith in business dealings." Under questioning, Guzynski said, Dasen explained that he had been transferring assets for tax purposes and because of impending civil suits.

Stadler also heard testimony testimony from Kim Neise, a 'Dasen girl' who pleaded guilty to procuring underage girls for Dasen. She said she was afraid of him, and afraid for her family.

Stadler said it was a cause for concern that Dasen had completed a sexual disorder treatment program but his prognosis was only "guarded."

Contradicting the argument that Dasen needed to be released so that he could protect his health by exercising, Kathy Frame, Commander of the Flathead County Detention Center testified that Dasen had declined the opportunity to use the facility's exercise yard, and that he was receiving the appropriate medications for his condition.

Best was not available for comment following the hearing.
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