SPOKANE, Wash. — Nearly five decades after his alleged first attack, victims have mixed emotions about the potential release of convicted rapist Kevin Coe.
The thought of Coe’s release has sparked fear and anger from many within the Spokane community. However, the victims who spoke about the case say they have known about the possible release for months. They say they feel okay with his release due to where he is going and his current condition.
“I am trying to change my mindset, I am trying to justify it with the fact that he is old and will not be doing anything,” Julie Harmia said. Harmia first shared her story with KXLY in 2006. She is the only conviction in this case that withstood appeals. She and her husband had just moved to the neighborhood days before she was raped.
Harmia says each time this case comes up, “It is like pulling a big massive scab over your wound that you are trying so desperately to heal.”
The last time Coe’s release was considered, things were different – he was in good condition. For Shelly Monahan, another Coe victim, his poor health now brings her a sense of peace.
“He’s basically transferring from one bed at McNeil Island to another bed, you know, at an assisted living,” Monahan said.
Monahan has been outspoken about this case. She was allegedly violently raped by Coe, stalked, and even endured death threats.
“I didn’t want to die. And I promised him that I would turn it into a positive. And that’s why I’ve been, you know, so much public speaking across the country,” Monahan said.
Monahan acknowledges the anger Coe’s release could generate for the public, but she says time has helped heal her wounds.
“I would just ask the community to stay close to their faith and know that we have a lot of support,” Monahan said.
Coe wants release to an adult group home in western Washington. A trial will determine Coe’s future on October 2 in Spokane County.
COPYRIGHT 2025 BY KXLY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.