COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho – A judge sentenced a man Monday who pleaded guilty to killing his ex-girlfriend’s boyfriend. The murder was captured on Ring cameras in her home.
On Monday, a judge sentenced Jason Rook to life in prison without the possibility for parole for the February 2025 murder of 46-year-old Nathan Rogers. He was also sentenced to five years fixed for stalking charges.
Court documents show Rook hid out in his ex’s home in Post Falls for eight hours, then shot Rogers multiple times. Several cameras in the home and on the front porch captured the incident.
Rook dated Rogers’ girlfriend, Erin Gardner, but the two broke up over Rook’s drug use in 2023.
In the months leading up to the murder, Rook stalked Gardner. She was planning to file a protective order against him.
Rogers was a business owner in Coeur d’Alene. His obituary described him as a father, son, brother and uncle.
“Known for his infectious laughter, kind spirit, and unwavering loyalty, Nathan had an incredible ability to bring joy to those around him,” the obituary said.
“He was a protector in every sense, always going above and beyond to ensure the safety and happiness of his loved ones. His selflessness and generosity knew no limits—he would give anything to help those he cared for.”
Prosecutors initially considered the death penalty for Rook. He pleaded guilty to the charges in July in exchange for the state not seeking the death penalty.
Rogers’ family and friends spent the morning sharing statements about the impact of the murder.
“I have to grow up without a dad because of you,” Nathan Rogers, Jr. said to his father’s killer.
Rogers’ girlfriend described watching the video of what happened to her boyfriend.
“I watched him fall and I saw the blood and I screamed,” Erin Gardner said.
Rook showed no emotion during the impact statements.
During the sentencing, Rook addressed the court and apologized to Rogers’ loved ones.
“I will be paying for the grief and heavy burden of this for the rest of my life. I am especially sorry to his teenage son,” he said.
He addressed Rogers’ son directly, saying, “Young man, your father did not deserve what I did to him. I am truly, truly sorry for it.”
Nathan’s sister, Sara Rogers, also spoke in court, directly addressing Rook.
“I wish I could have seen your face the moment you realized everything had been caught on camera,” said Sara Rogers. “No more lies, no more outs, no more control. Even in death Nathan got the better of you. Despite the pain I am so proud and satisfied to know that the truth won.”
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