Hull, Iowa (Sioux County Radio) — A Hull man already facing multiple charges in a burglary case is now charged with 15 felony counts related to child exploitation material following a separate investigation.
The Sioux County Sheriff’s Office says 33-year-old Jesse Thomas Van Leeuwen was arrested Friday, May 1st, at approximately 1:30 p.m.
Authorities say the arrest came after a deputy conducted a digital forensic examination of a device as part of a separate investigation. During that process, investigators determined the man was allegedly in possession of illegal content.
He now faces 15 counts of possession of a depiction of a minor in a sex act, all Class D felonies.
Connection to Prior Burglary Case
Van Leeuwen was previously charged in connection with a burglary investigation in Hull that began on February 25th.
According to authorities, that case involved:
- Theft of property valued at more than $10,000 from a Hull business
- Multiple search warrants executed at residences in Hull
- Recovery of stolen items tied to the case
In that investigation, the man faced multiple charges, including:
- First-degree theft (Class C felony)
- Second-degree theft, second-degree criminal mischief, and third-degree burglary (Class D felonies)
- Possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia (misdemeanors)
Court records show he has pleaded not guilty to those charges and waived his right to a speedy trial.
Ongoing Investigation
The sheriff’s office says multiple agencies assisted in the burglary investigation, including departments in Sioux Center, Rock Valley, Dickinson County, Spirit Lake, Arnolds Park, and Okoboji.
Authorities have not indicated whether the new charges are connected to the burglary case beyond the forensic examination.
The case remains under investigation.
It should be noted that a criminal charge is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
KIWA Staff Photo
