BECKER COUNTY, MN (trfnews.i234.me) – A Detroit Lakes man has been charged with third-degree criminal sexual conduct in connection with the alleged rape of a 14-year-old girl in 2022.
According to Minnesota court records, 24-year-old Jonathan Dale Eifealdt of Detroit Lakes has been charged with third-degree criminal sexual conduct – penetration. He made his initial court appearance this past week in Becker County District Court.
Court documents state that the alleged assault occurred on January 12, 2022. The victim reported that Eifealdt began by touching her inappropriately. When she attempted to pull away, he allegedly removed her clothing, held her down, and engaged in sexual intercourse without consent.
Following an investigation, prosecutors filed charges under Minnesota’s third-degree criminal sexual conduct statute, which applies to sexual acts involving minors under the age of 16 when the defendant is at least two years older.
Eifealdt was released from custody on bond and has an omnibus hearing scheduled for December 1. The hearing will address pretrial motions and determine whether the case proceeds to trial.
The Becker County Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. No additional details about the investigation have been released at this time.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
