By: Matt Scher, matts@977thebolt.com
Rockwell City, IA — A Pomeroy man has been convicted on multiple felony sex abuse charges involving a child following a bench trial in Calhoun County District Court.
Jason Michael Peed, 39, was found guilty May 29 of continuous sexual abuse of a child and two counts of second-degree sexual abuse. The convictions stem from the sexual abuse of a child over a period of years, according to court officials.
The case was tried before District Court Judge Kurt J. Stoebe on March 24 after Peed waived his right to a jury trial. Peed was found guilty on all three charges.
Continuous sexual abuse of a child is a Class B felony punishable by up to 50 years in prison. Each count of second-degree sexual abuse is also a Class B felony carrying a prison term of up to 25 years.
Under Iowa law, all three offenses are classified as forcible felonies, making prison sentences mandatory. The court cannot suspend the sentences or grant probation. Iowa law requires that offenders convicted of these crimes serve 70 percent of their sentences before becoming eligible for parole.
At sentencing, the court will determine whether the prison terms will run concurrently or consecutively. Peed faces a potential prison sentence ranging from 50 years to 100 years, with mandatory minimum incarceration periods ranging from 35 to 70 years.
Peed will also be required to register as a sex offender for life.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 31 in Calhoun County District Court.