Grand Forks Man Faces Two Felony Sex Crime Charges

GRAND FORKS, ND (trfnews.i234.me) – A Grand Forks man is facing two felony gross sexual imposition charges after a 13-year-old girl reported that he had engaged in inappropriate sexual contact with her over several years.

Jesse Rich is charged with two counts of gross sexual imposition involving a victim younger than 15, according to court documents.

Teen Reports Alleged Abuse to Mother

According to court documents, the investigation began after the 13-year-old girl disclosed to her mother that Rich had allegedly touched her inappropriately on multiple occasions.

The girl told investigators that some of the alleged contact occurred while she and Rich were traveling together in a vehicle.

The complaint describes allegations spanning several years.

Surveillance Footage Provided to Investigators

During the investigation, the girl’s mother provided home surveillance video that allegedly showed Rich engaging in inappropriate contact with the child.

According to the documents, investigators also reviewed a text message Rich allegedly sent the girl following an incident, asking whether she had liked what happened.

Investigators cited the girl’s disclosure, the surveillance footage and the message as evidence supporting the allegations.

Suspect Allegedly Acknowledged Contact

During an interview with investigators, Rich reportedly acknowledged having touched the girl repeatedly.

According to the investigative statement, he also acknowledged knowing that the alleged conduct was wrong because of the child’s age and the nature of the contact.

Based on the girl’s statements, the video evidence and Rich’s reported admissions, the investigating officer concluded there was probable cause to believe Rich knowingly engaged in sexual contact with the minor.

Two Felony Gross Sexual Imposition Charges

Prosecutors have charged Rich with two counts of gross sexual imposition involving a victim younger than 15.

Gross sexual imposition is addressed under North Dakota Century Code Section 12.1-20-03.

The law establishes felony penalties for qualifying sexual acts or sexual contact involving children younger than 15.

The supplied court information does not specify the exact felony classification of each count or identify a scheduled court appearance.

Court Proceedings and Case Status

The information provided does not confirm Rich’s custody status, bail conditions or whether he has entered a plea.

The girl’s identity is being withheld because she is a minor and an alleged victim of sexual abuse.

The charges remain allegations. Rich is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.