TF man's death still under investigation

The death of Thompson Falls resident Matt LaFriniere is still under investigation, according to a statement released by Sanders County Sheriff Tom Rummel this week.

"This is a very active investigation and there is a lot going on behind the scenes," Rummel wrote. "All of the i's are being dotted and the t's crossed, which can be very time consuming. Rest assured, no matter how much time this investigation takes, it will be done in a professional, competent manner."

In the statement, Sheriff Rummel noted that the Sanders County Sheriff's Office and the state Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) have "been working diligently to follow up on all possible leads in this investigation."

Lt. Shawna Chenoweth with the Sanders County Sheriff's Office responded to criticism on the length of the investigation in a Facebook post.

"While many want to critique and criticize this investigation, keep in mind it takes time for evidence to be analyzed," Chenoweth wrote. "While DCI is waiting for this they continue to work other leads and information. Some may question why the sheriff's office is not the lead on this investigation. It is as simple and as hard as this; Matt was a huge part of our family and we simply want there to be no questions asked when this is completed and the right person stands trial."

LaFriniere, 51, was found dead at his home on Airport Road in Thompson Falls last month. He was an employee of the Sanders County Sheriff's Office and Empire Builders in Thompson Falls.