Jonathan Smith, 28, pleads not guilty to fourth-degree assault with sexual motivation in cases of women slapped on backsides while using hiking trail

This article is more than 3 years old

This article is more than 3 years old

New charges have been filed against a man accused of slapping the backsides of women using a popular hiking trail that runs through the city of Spokane, in eastern Washington state.



A local TV station, KXLY-TV, reported that 28-year-old Jonathan Smith faces charges in Spokane County district court and that the charges carry serious penalties.

Charged with 11 counts of fourth-degree assault with sexual motivation, Smith pleaded not guilty when he appeared in district court on Friday. He was previously charged in Spokane municipal court.

Smith was arrested on 20 April, a day after he went to the offices of KHQ television station, identified himself as the so-called “Spokane spanker” and apologized to victims, saying he had attacked up to 50 women.

The majority of confirmed victims, KXLY-TV reported, told investigators they did not welcome, invite or enjoy being targeted.

Spokane police said they were taking Smith’s actions seriously and did not consider them a prank.



“The simple fact is, people should be able to walk downtown, and through Gonzaga on the Centennial Trail, and not be assaulted,” Corporal Shane Phillips told the TV station.

“And especially because of the sexual component. It’s not right and it’s something we’re taking seriously.”