DUBUQUE, Iowa (KCAU) — A joint operation by multiple law enforcement agencies resulted in multiple arrests tied to a prostitution ring in northeastern Iowa, officials say.
On February 8 and 9, the Dubuque Police Department, Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office, and Iowa State Patrol conducted a joint operation targeting human trafficking and prostitution in the Dubuque area, a release states.
Investigators posted ads online and undercover officers arranged to meet with suspects that responded to their ad listings.
The following individuals had charges filed on February 8:
- Jordan Watkins, 38, of Bellevue, Iowa – Prostitution
- Timothy Griffin, 32, of Dickeyville, Wisconsin – Prostituion, two counts of possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and a probatation violation arrest warrant
- Craig Mason, 57, of Stoughton, Wisconsin – Prostitution
- Vincent Hanson, 59, of Dubuque, Iowa – Prostitution
- Timothy McAndrews, 57, of Dubuque, Iowa – Prostitution
- Josua Vondran, 40, of Epworth, Iowa – Prostitution
The following individuals had charges filed on February 9:
- Kevin Bockenstedt, 41, of Sherril, Iowa – Prostitution
- Ryan Besler, 21 of Farley, Iowa – Prostitution and interference with official acts
- Timothy Murphy, 55, of Peosta, Iowa – Prostitution
- Kevin Stanton, 63, of Cub City, Wisconsin – Prostitution
- Randy Wedewer, 60, of Epworth, Iowa – Prostitution
Prostitution is an aggravated misdemeanor punishable by up to two years of imprisonment.
Consequences for other charges are as follows: Possession of a controlled substance is a serious misdemeanor punishable by up to one year of imprisonment, possession of drug paraphernalia is a simple misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail, and interference with official acts is a simple misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail.
The investigation remains ongoing and additional charges are possible.
