A former mixed martial arts coach has been sentenced to 34 years in prison after pleading guilty to s**ual abuse charges involving minors, following a case that revealed a pattern of predatory behavior spanning multiple jurisdictions.
Maxie Riddle, 39, appeared before Judge Watkins in Bonneville County, Idaho, where he received nine years fixed with an indeterminate period of 25 years for his role in s**ually abusing vulnerable young targets. The sentence means Riddle will be in his mid-70s before becoming eligible for release.
Riddle ran Phantom MMA & Fitness in Pocatello.
During the sentencing hearing, prosecutors painted a disturbing picture of a serial predator who exploited his position of trust and authority. “Mr. Riddle is a predator,” stated the prosecution, emphasizing that multiple targets had fallen under his influence across different cases in both Bonneville and Bingham counties.
The court heard particularly troubling details about how Riddle targeted vulnerable individuals, including a target who had been in foster care. Prosecutor Hurlbert noted that Riddle “was a caregiver for the target in this case and then took advantage of her,” describing similar patterns of abuse involving impressionable and vulnerable young people.
A psychological evaluation classified Riddle as high risk, despite other assessment scores suggesting otherwise. The pre-sentence investigation revealed concerning details about the defendant’s lack of empathy for his targets and his tendency to focus on himself rather than acknowledging the harm he caused.
In a powerful target impact statement, one target courageously addressed the court, describing the lasting trauma and daily battles resulting from Riddle’s abuse. Judge Watkins praised her courage, stating, “This court is moved by your words. You presented them with great poise and great courage.”
During his own statement to the court, Riddle attempted to express remorse, saying, “I would like to take responsibility for the harm I caused. Sorry for the deep impact I’ve made on your life every day. I apologize for taking advantage of the trust I have with you.”
However, Judge Watkins noted significant aggravating factors in the case, including the exploitative nature of the offenses and Riddle’s targeting of particularly vulnerable targets. “The offense was exploitive,” the judge stated, emphasizing how Riddle “prayed upon an individual who in foster care would have been more vulnerable.”
The case involved extensive plea negotiations that included coordination with Bingham County, where Riddle faced additional charges. Defense counsel indicated that Riddle wanted to resolve all pending cases to avoid further trauma to targets through prolonged legal proceedings.
In addition to the prison sentence, Judge Watkins imposed $20,000 in fines and maintained a no-contact order throughout the court’s jurisdiction. The judge also left open the possibility for restitution to cover counseling costs for the targets.
