Sibley therapist accused of sexually abusing a 13-year-old

SHELDON, Iowa – A Sibley man is accused of sexually abusing his 13-year-old therapy patient at his Sheldon practice.

Martin William Wallace, 75, was arrested for second-degree sexual abuse (a class B felony), lascivious acts with a child (a class C felony), and sexual exploitation by a counselor or therapist (a class D felony).

According to a criminal complaint filed in O’Brien County District Court, the 13-year-old boy called police to report inappropriate contact with his therapist that allegedly occurred between August 2023 and May 2024.

“The victim stated that his psychotherapist had inappropriate contact with him on at least three separate occasions over the past nine months,” the document states.

All three incidents allegedly occurred during separate visits to Wallace’s office in the 900 block of Third Avenue.

According to the complaint, several search warrants were executed at Wallace’s office and evidence was found that supported the victim’s claim.

“During questioning, the defendant denied having video cameras recording the meetings. During the search, several cameras were found, including a magnetic hidden camera,” the document states.

Wallace was arrested on a warrant on May 31. He posted $40,000 bail and was released on June 1.

According to an online search of the Iowa Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Professional Licensure records, Wallace’s license as a psychotherapist is “active” and no disciplinary action has been taken against him. His license was issued on June 25, 2004. It expires on September 30, 2024.