William Christopher Kounkel : “Accused Seeks New Lawyer for Speedy Trial in Sex Case”

In a recent development, William Christopher Kounkel, a 35-year-old Brainerd man facing multiple charges of sexual crimes against children, has requested a new attorney from the public defender’s office. Kounkel, who is accused of incidents that took place in December 2022 and March 2023 at a Brainerd business, is currently represented by attorney Mark Hansen.

Kounkel faces charges of felony second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a person under the age of 14, two charges of felony harassment with sexual or aggressive intent involving a victim under the age of 18, and a gross misdemeanor criminal sexual conduct with a person under the age of 16. The charges stem from incidents where Kounkel allegedly exposed himself to young girls at the Brainerd business.

Contributed / Crow Wing CountY Jail

During a recent court appearance before Judge Erik Askegaard in Crow Wing County District Court, Kounkel expressed his desire to have a new attorney, citing feelings of being misrepresented and a lack of care from his current lawyer. However, Askegaard explained that the decision to assign a new attorney rests with the public defender’s office.

As the legal proceedings continue, the state has requested a speedy trial on behalf of the victims, who have been waiting for justice for over a year and a half. The trial has been scheduled for August 6, 2024, with a hearing set for July 10 to determine Kounkel’s representation status.

Despite being presented with a plea agreement by the state, Kounkel has not made a decision on the offer, stating that he is still trying to understand its implications. As the legal process unfolds, Kounkel is urged to carefully consider his options and the advice provided by his attorney.

Allegations and Incidents

Court documents reveal disturbing details of the incidents involving Kounkel. On March 25, 2023, law enforcement responded to reports of Kounkel exposing himself to two juvenile girls at a Brainerd business, leading to his arrest.

Additionally, on April 5, 2023, while in jail on charges from the March incident, a report of another sexual assault at the same business surfaced. Investigators learned of a child who had been assaulted and was traumatized by the experience, prompting concerns for her well-being.

Furthermore, a 12-year-old girl reported that Kounkel had inappropriately touched her at the store, corroborated by security footage showing Kounkel following the girl before committing the act. These incidents have left a lasting impact on the victims and their families, underscoring the need for a swift resolution in the legal proceedings.

Seeking Justice

As the legal process moves forward, the victims and their families are hopeful for a resolution that brings justice and closure to the traumatic events they have endured. The state’s commitment to a speedy trial reflects the urgency of addressing these serious allegations and holding the perpetrator accountable.

William Christopher Kounkel is scheduled to appear in Crow Wing County District Court on July 10 for a hearing regarding his legal representation, with the trial set to commence on August 6. The court proceedings will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the case and delivering justice for the victims.

For more updates on this case, follow reporter Tim Speier on Twitter @timmy2thyme or contact him at tim.speier@brainerddispatch.com.