Sauk Centre Man Charged in Child Sex Case

Stearns County (trfnews.i234.me) — Dacotah James Wenninger of Sauk Centre, Minnesota, is charged with first-degree criminal sexual conduct. The complaint lists a victim under 16.

What court documents allege

Court documents say a report was taken on Dec. 8.

The complaint involves an elementary-aged child in Stearns County.

Records say the child was a local student.

The child was transported for an interview, according to the filing.

Forensic interview details

Records say the interview took place at a Child Advocacy Center.

These centers are designed for child-focused interviews.

The interview is led by trained staff.

Questions are meant to be age-appropriate.

The goal is to gather facts for an investigation.

In the interview, the child described alleged abuse by Wenninger, court documents say.

The complaint says it happened more than once.

It also says the incidents were on different days.

The filing does not name the child.

Court process and next steps

The case is filed in Stearns County District Court.

A criminal charge is an accusation.

Wenninger is presumed innocent in court.

The state must prove the charge at trial.

A criminal complaint is often the first public court document.

It lists the charge and alleged facts.

It can rely on reports and interviews.

It is not proof by itself.

The next steps often start with an initial appearance.

A judge can set release conditions.

The case can then move to hearings and motions.

Lawyers may argue over evidence.

The case can end with a plea or a trial.

Potential penalty

First-degree criminal sexual conduct is a felony in Minnesota.

The law allows up to 30 years in prison.

It also allows a fine of up to $40,000.

Sentencing depends on facts and guidelines.

Officials have not identified the child.

TRF News does not name juvenile victims.

A conviction needs proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

Read the statute here: Minnesota Statute 609.342.

Public case records may appear here: Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO).

More on the criminal process: Minnesota Judicial Branch criminal resources.

About forensic interviews: Child Advocacy Center forensic interview overview.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.