Three Iowa men nabbed by law enforcement for grooming, enticing minors

WEST UNION, IOWA – This Northern Iowa police department announced the arrest of three suspects they say were committing crimes against children.

The West Union Police Department is actively investigating several serious cases involving crimes against children, they announced today. As part of an extensive and ongoing investigation, three individuals have recently been arrested and charged with multiple felonies:

Jon W. Jones, age 48 of Dickens, Iowa:

– SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR – CAUSE TO ENGAGE IN ACT (05/30/2025) CLASS B FELONY

– GROOMING (05/30/2025) CLASS D FELONY

– DISSEMINATION AND EXHIBITION OF OBSCENE MATERIAL TO MINORS (05/30/2025) SERIOUS MISDEMEANOR

Jones posted bond on June 20 and was released from jail, pending court appearances.

Devin J. Howes, age 23, of Hawkeye, Iowa:

– SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR – CAUSE TO ENGAGE IN ACT (05/30/2025) CLASS B FELONY

– GROOMING (05/30/2025) CLASS D FELONY

– DISSEMINATION AND EXHIBITION OF OBSCENE MATERIAL TO MINORS (05/30/2025) SERIOUS MISDEMEANOR

Howes remains jailed at this time, awaiting court appearances.

Taylor D. Smith of Creston, Iowa:

– ENTICE MINOR UNDER 16 (06/17/2025) CLASS D FELONY

– DISSEMINATION AND EXHIBITION OF OBSCENE MATERIAL TO MINORS (06/17/2025) SERIOUS MISDEMEANOR

Smith remains jailed at this time, awaiting court appearances.

“These are deeply disturbing crimes, and we want the community to know that protecting our children remains our highest priority,” said Chief Paul Becthold. “Our department has spent countless hours investigating these cases and working alongside other agencies to build solid cases against these three suspects.”

Each of the arrested individuals is facing felony-level charges tied to child exploitation and related offenses. Due to the sensitive nature of these cases and the need to protect the integrity of the investigation, specific details will not be released at this time.