Sioux Center, Iowa — A couple of weeks ago we told you about a Sioux Center Christian School teacher who had been charged with a pair of sex-related crimes. Sioux Center Police say further investigation has led to 140 counts of various sex crimes charged against 35-year old Curtis Van Dam of Sioux Center.
Sioux Center Police say they have now arrested and charged Van Dam with the following alleged crimes: 14 counts of Sexual Exploitation by a Teacher, all of which are Class D Felonies; 72 counts of Sexual Abuse in the 2nd Degree, Class B Felonies; 12 counts of Sexual Abuse in the 3rd Degree, Class C Felonies; 2 counts of Lascivious Acts With a Child, Class C Felonies; 1 count of Lascivious Acts with a Child, a Class D Felony; 34 counts of Lascivious Conduct with a Minor, a Serious Misdemeanor; and Indecent Exposure, a Serious Misdemeanor.
Authorities say the charges were filed after a complaint was lodged with police on October 18th, alleging inappropriate conduct between Van Dam, a teacher at Sioux Center Christian School, and a student attending the school.
Sioux Center Police say they discovered that the earliest alleged crime occurred in August of 2013, with subsequent allegations allegedly happening through October of this year. The alleged violations took place at various locations, including the Sioux Center Christian School, and involved numerous children, according to the Sioux Center Police Department.
Authorities say the investigation into further allegations is continuing, and additional charges are possible.
Sioux Center Police stress that an arrest is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
