NEWS

Charges dropped against man accused of exploiting uncle

The Associated Press

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) – Prosecutors have dropped charges against a Montana man accused of kidnapping a mentally impaired 84-year-old uncle from North Dakota.

McKenzie County State’s Attorney Jacob Rodenbiker says there is not enough evidence to continue prosecuting Thomas Potter. KXMB-TV reports that Rodenbiker says authorities are still investigating and charges could be filed again.

Authorities earlier dropped charges against Sandra Potter, the niece of 84-year-old Robert Gross. The Potters were accused last fall of keeping Gross in deplorable living conditions and getting him to sign over oil well rights. Gross’ family members described him as having the mental capacity of a 12-year-old.

Sandra Potter was arrested last October in her Worden home. Thomas Potter was arrested near Yuma, Arizona, and Gross was with him.