Cass County (trfnews.i234.me) — Anthony Everett Blanchard of Backus has been charged in Cass County with fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct. The charge was filed in the Minnesota District Court. Court records show the case is in the 9th Judicial District.
According to the criminal complaint, the felony charge stems from allegations tied to Father’s Day weekend in June 2025. Prosecutors allege Blanchard engaged in sexual contact with a 19-year-old woman who was mentally impaired. The complaint says he knew, or had reason to know, about that impairment.
What the complaint says
The complaint says the woman reported that Blanchard took her on rides in his side-by-side vehicle. During one ride, she said he tried to kiss her, touched her breasts, and touched her upper inner thigh area. The complaint says the contact happened outside her clothing.
Investigators later arranged a forensic interview. According to the filing, the woman said Blanchard turned her head and kissed her. She also said she told him to stop, but he kept touching her. The complaint states she pointed to her breasts and groin area while describing what happened.
Statements listed in court records
The complaint says Blanchard later spoke with investigators during an interview in July 2025. According to the filing, he admitted there were times he kissed the woman. The complaint also says he admitted touching her breast over her clothing.
Prosecutors say he also admitted touching her inner thigh. The complaint says he first denied some conduct, then made admissions during questioning. Those statements are now part of the charging document.
Guardianship order cited
The complaint also points to a 2023 guardianship order involving the alleged victim. That order said she was incapacitated in several areas of personal decision-making. The filing listed epilepsy, ASD, ADHD, and cognitive delay among the reasons.
Under Minnesota Statute 609.345, fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct can carry up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000. The complaint also cites Minnesota Statute 609.341 for legal definitions used in the case.
What comes next
The case is now moving through Minnesota’s court system. A criminal charge is only an allegation. It is not a conviction. Blanchard will have the chance to respond in court as the case moves forward.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.