WEBSTER CITY — Two men have been convicted and sentenced in separate criminal cases that began after they allegedly communicated online with an undercover Hamilton County deputy posing as an underage child, according to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said the investigations were separate and were conducted independently. In each case, the individual made contact and engaged in online conversations with an undercover deputy operating under the persona of an underage child living in Hamilton County.
The sheriff’s office said both men expressed a desire to meet with the person they believed was the underage child. The online communications eventually led investigators to identify the men and file criminal charges.
Shawn Allan Holmes of Wisconsin was convicted of grooming, in violation of Iowa Code 709.8A(2), a Class D felony, and enticing a minor under 16 for a sexual purpose, in violation of Iowa Code 710.10(2), also a Class D felony.
Jeremiah James McCurdy of Fort Dodge was convicted of grooming under Iowa Code 709.8A, a Class D felony.
The sheriff’s office said both Holmes and McCurdy have now been sentenced and will be required to register as sex offenders in Iowa. The agency’s announcement did not specify the length or other terms of either man’s sentence.
Hamilton County Sheriff Alex Pruismann said the cases highlight the dangers posed by people who attempt to communicate with children online.
The sheriff’s office warned parents and the public that online conversations involving minors can quickly progress from seemingly innocent contact into potentially criminal conduct.
“The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting children, investigating allegations of criminal conduct and holding those who commit crimes accountable,” the agency said.
They should be strung up by their nads on pay-per-view. This might deter future perverts.