Authorities recently responded to an report of sexual abuse.
On April 29th at approximately 9:14 AM, the Ottumwa Police Department responded to the 900 block of N. Quincy at the Hampton Inn for a report of a sexual assault.
According to the criminal complaint, Luis Lara, 43, of Ontario, CA, engaged in unwanted physical contact with the victim by picking her up and not letting her go. Court documents state that Lara intentionally and without consent applied his mouth to the victim’s neck in an intimate manner, while also putting his hand down the front of the victim’s pants, demonstrating intent to commit sexual abuse.
Authorities mention that Lara was found passed out, with an alcoholic drink spilling into his lap. Upon speaking to Lara, officers detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage on his breath, observed his speech was slurred, and noted that his eyes were bloodshot and watery. Lara also exhibited poor balance.
Lara was taken into custody and is currently being held in the Wapello County Jail on a $5,000 cash-only bond. A preliminary hearing is set for May 7th.
Lara is charged with assault with intent to commit sexual abuse (aggravated misdemeanor) and consumption of alcohol in a public place (1st offense, simple misdemeanor).
Editors Note: All information was obtained from court documents related to the ongoing investigation.
