Pomeroy man pleads guilty in Lewiston prostitution case

Clinton Schutt, 68, from Pomeroy, pleaded guilty Tuesday to operating a business associated with illegal sexual activity as part of a plea deal in Nez Perce County's Second District Court. Schutt will forfeit $51,917 and serve a 90-day jail sentence, followed by eight years of probation. During the hearing, Judge Michelle Evans inquired about Schutt's awareness of the activities, and he admitted his name was on the business license and bank account, implying limited knowledge of the operations. His wife, Ping Schutt, and co-defendant Wang Xiaohong also face charges related to the investigation of three Lewiston massage businesses. A trial date for Ping was canceled, with a status conference scheduled for October 29.

Wang's change of plea hearing was halted, and her next court date is set for September 22. The charges against Schutt carry maximum penalties of $50,000 and 20 years in prison, highlighting the seriousness of the allegations. The case underscores ongoing legal scrutiny of businesses allegedly involved in prostitution.