An Ames man has been found guilty of felony child enticement following a large-scale sting operation in Knoxville in October 2024.
Herve Twagirumukize, 29, was arrested along with three others during the operation, which involved more than ten law enforcement agencies. Court records show that Twagirumukize engaged in online conversations with an undercover officer posing as a 13-year-old girl. He agreed to meet the minor in Knoxville to perform sexual acts and was taken into custody at the meeting location.
Twagirumukize faced multiple charges, including enticing a minor under 16, a class D felony, as well as misdemeanor counts of possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana, and being a person ineligible to carry a dangerous weapon.
His trial, which began on September 29, 2025, was heard by Judge Charles Sinnard in Marion County District Court and lasted two days. On Tuesday, Twagirumukize was found guilty on all four counts. Sentencing is scheduled for April 20, 2026. As part of pre-sentencing conditions, Twagirumukize will be required to wear a GPS ankle monitor and have all phone communications monitored by the Iowa Department of Corrections.
Marion County Attorney Jared Harmon emphasized the importance of proactive law enforcement efforts in protecting children. “This case shows what can be accomplished when law enforcement works closely with our office to identify individuals intent on harming children. Arresting them before they have the opportunity to harm anyone is crucial,” Harmon said.
Three other individuals were arrested during the same sting operation: Chadwick Cooper of Colfax, Jason Glasgow of Oskaloosa, and Stephen Spangler of Waukee. Cooper was sentenced to five years in prison on March 6, Spangler pled guilty to a lesser charge and received probation, and Glasgow has not yet had a trial date set.
