A Cresco man has pleaded not guilty to 10 charges he sexually abused at least five minor victims.
The Iowa DCI and Cresco Police arrested 73-year-old James Hughes June 7th on several warrants related to a historical sex abuse investigation. He has been charged with four counts of third-degree sexual abuse, all Class C felonies; and six counts of lascivious conduct with a minor, all serious misdemeanors.
According to the DCI, a report was filed with Cresco Police in March 2021 regarding sexual abuse between Hughes and a juvenile Boy Scout troop member over several years. Further investigation learned of several other instances of sexual abuse involving Hughes and other juvenile boys in his troop, some spanning more than a decade. The alleged sexual abuse involved five separate victims.
Friday, Hughes entered a not guilty plea to the charges in Howard County District Court and waived his right to a speedy trial, which is now set for October 25th.
He is free on bail after posting a $46,000 security bond.
