Federal Judge Sentenced Joseph Parisien to Prison
A judge handed down an 82-month sentence following an attempted kidnapping conviction in Spokane.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Sex Crimes
Judge Rebecca L. Pennell sentenced Joseph Parisien to 82 months in federal prison for attempted kidnapping. Parisien was also ordered to complete a three-year term of supervised release.
Why it matters
The sentence addresses a serious violent incident involving a kidnapping and assault. It combines time for the underlying criminal conviction with a penalty for violating prior supervised release terms.
The sentence includes 70 months for the attempted kidnapping conviction and 12 months for a supervised release violation. The total term is followed by three years of supervised release.
The players
Joseph Parisien
He is the defendant who was convicted of attempted kidnapping and violating supervised release.
Rebecca L. Pennell
She is the federal judge who presided over the sentencing hearing.
The details
Parisien assaulted the victim at a residence in Airway Heights before dragging her by her hair into a truck at the Spokane Tribe Casino. He also chased the victim across a parking lot after she attempted to flee, eventually leading to a law enforcement search across Spokane and Colville.
Timeline
April 26, 2024: Parisien assaulted and kidnapped his partner.
April 29, 2024: Law enforcement recovered the victim.
April 30, 2024: Joseph Parisien was arrested.
October 5, 2026: Judge Pennell sentenced Parisien to prison.
Legal Context
This case follows the established framework of the federal supervised release program, where violations of post-prison conditions lead to additional confinement. The sentencing reflects the standard judicial practice of accounting for recidivism while addressing new violent criminal activity.
The resolution of this case concludes a violent episode that spanned multiple local jurisdictions, including Airway Heights and Spokane. Residents may note that the suspect is now in federal custody following the investigation and recovery efforts.
The takeaway
This case highlights the serious legal consequences for violent offenses that occur within the community. Individuals should remain aware of local safety updates and law enforcement reports in their immediate area.
Further reading
For more information on legal proceedings, visit the Sex Crimes section.
