30 August 2024
CARLTON — A rural Carlton County man has been charged with sexually assaulting a young teenager.
Jake Alan Gould, 32, of Beseman Township, near Wright, was arraigned this week in State District Court on a count of first-degree criminal sexual conduct.
A criminal complaint also indicates that a second alleged victim spoke with authorities, but Gould was not immediately charged in relation to those allegations.
According to the complaint:
Another agency first received a report in June and referred the investigation to the Carlton County Sheriff’s Office, as it was alleged to have occurred at Gould’s home on June 15.
The victim, who was known to the defendant, told authorities she was seated on a couch and covered by a blanket when he slipped his hand into the back side of her pants. She then got up and went to the bathroom, messaging a friend about it, but returned as she thought it might have been an accident.
However, Gould allegedly continued to reach into her shorts and touch her sexually. Several other people were present at the time but apparently unaware of his actions, though one person recalled seeing a blanket covering the victim and Gould’s arm.
At a later point, the teen said Gould also sat on her legs and rubbed her buttocks. Investigators were able to corroborate her account with the friend and obtain copies of their messages.
Deputies made contact with Gould on June 17 as he reportedly threatened suicide after the initial report was made. Once his safety was assured, he agreed to provide a statement.
Gould allegedly acknowledged having a couple of beers that day but denied ever touching the victim inappropriately.
Investigators said they also became aware of a second alleged victim. She was of a similar age approximately two years earlier when she said Gould also reached into her pants and sexually assaulted her.
Judge Amy Lukasavitz on Monday set bail at $10,000 with conditions or $100,000 without. Documents indicate he was released following his arraignment, agreeing to supervision by a probation officer and conditions including no contact with anyone under 18.
Gould’s next court appearance was set for Nov. 6.
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