UPDATE: A shocking confession is surfacing from Clarkston, Washington, as Kerry Houston, 67, admits to a violent robbery that took place over 50 years ago. In a heartfelt plea, Houston is actively searching for the victim he harmed in 1975 to make amends.
Houston, then a 17-year-old, assaulted a man behind a Lewiston grocery store, stealing his wallet and leaving him unconscious. Now, decades later, he is driven by regret and a desire to repay the $80 he took. “I want to make restitution to the family of the one I harmed,” Houston told the Tribune. He has set aside $800 as restitution, hoping it may help heal the wounds of the past.
This urgent revelation comes as Houston reflects on his past, stating, “It’s the time for me to come clean.” He describes the violent act as something that has haunted him for years, explaining, “I’ve wondered since then if it killed him.” Houston now lives in a small town called Otis, Oregon, and is determined to find the victim or their family to seek forgiveness and closure.
The robbery occurred during a different era, a time when America was undergoing significant cultural shifts. Houston recalls being heavily involved in substance use and feeling the pressures of teenage life. “I did everything but heroin,” he admitted, revealing the recklessness that led to his crime.
In his pursuit of redemption, Houston acknowledges the difficulty of locating his victim after so much time. The Lewiston Police Department has confirmed that records from the 1970s are not readily available, making it challenging to trace the identity of the man he assaulted. Store Manager Lisa Powell also noted that the Albertsons store where the robbery occurred has since relocated.
Despite the challenges, Houston remains hopeful. “If that’s not enough, I think it’s fair if the man I attacked or the man’s family want to hit me back,” he said, expressing a willingness to face any consequences for his actions.
There is little risk of legal repercussions for Houston, as Nez Perce County Prosecutor Justin Coleman confirmed that the statute of limitations for robbery is typically five years. However, Houston is ready to confront any consequences that may arise from his confession.
As he takes this emotional journey, Houston reflects on the lessons learned over the years. “I learned to work for a living and did well because I was a hard worker,” he stated, noting his lengthy career and eventual sobriety. He hopes that by sharing his story, he can inspire others to confront their pasts and seek forgiveness.
Houston’s compelling story has the potential to resonate with many and highlights the profound impact of regret and the power of redemption. He urges anyone who might remember the incident to come forward, emphasizing, “All I want is to find out who the people are that I need to repay.”
As this story develops, the community watches closely, hoping for closure not just for Houston, but for the victim of a crime that has lingered in the shadows for half a century.
