UPDATE: A shocking confession from a man who committed a robbery nearly 48 years ago is making headlines today. Kerry Houston, now 67, has expressed gratitude towards the family of his victim, Lester C. Ayers, for accepting his offer of $800 restitution.
In an exclusive interview with the Lewiston Tribune, Houston revealed that he is eager to make amends for the crime he committed in 1975 behind the Albertsons Food Center in Lewiston, Idaho. Houston admitted to attacking Ayers, then 73, with a tree limb, robbing him of $76 from his wallet. Ayers passed away in 1988, but his family recently identified him as the victim after Houston shared his story.
Houston’s confession has sparked an emotional response from Ayers’ family. A representative for Ayers’ more than 30 grandchildren confirmed they will accept Houston’s restitution offer, which he calculated as ten times the amount he originally stole. The family plans to donate the funds to a cause in honor of their grandfather, whom they remembered as a “kind” and “sweet” man.
“I’m hoping some justice can be done,” Houston said, emphasizing his desire to put the past behind him. Despite conflicting reports from the time suggesting two assailants were involved, Houston remains adamant that he acted alone. “That’s news to me,” he stated, asserting, “I was the only one.”
Houston’s recollection aligns with details from a July 31, 1975 crime report, which initially misidentified the attackers. He has carried the weight of this crime for decades and expressed relief at finally knowing the identity of his victim. “It’s wonderful news that the grandkids are holding onto this,” he said.
In a surprising twist, Houston even offered to let Ayers’ family strike him back as a form of retribution, a gesture they declined. “I knew I got it coming, but I wasn’t looking forward to getting it,” he admitted. Legal experts note that because Idaho has a five-year statute of limitations for robbery and aggravated assault, Houston is unlikely to face any criminal charges for his actions nearly five decades ago.
This developing story raises questions about justice, redemption, and the long-lasting impact of crime on victims and their families. As Houston moves forward, he hopes this restitution will bring closure to both him and Ayers’ descendants.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
