Monona police do not release names of suspects in child abuse investigation

MONONA, Iowa (KCRG) – Monona police are facing criticism from citizens for withholding the names of four suspects in connection with the investigation into sexual abuse of minors.

Officials said an investigation that began in November 2023 led to the arrest of four men from Monona. However, police have only released the suspects’ ages and the charges against them. They say they are withholding the names to protect the victims and their families.

Police released the following list of suspects and the crimes they are accused of:

Monona Mann, 43 (In this case, the defendant was sentenced to 10 years in prison and a suspended fine of $2,740.)

• 2 cases of sexual abuse – 3rd degree
• 2 cases of acquisition/possession of a depiction of a minor in a sexual act
• 1 count of distributing obscene material to minors by telephone

Man from Monona, 41 years old

• 1 count of distributing obscene material to minors by telephone

Man from Waukon, 42

• 1 count of distributing obscene material to minors by telephone

Monona Mann, 31 (In this case, the defendant was sentenced to 10 years in prison and a suspended fine of $2,740.)

• • 2 cases of sexual exploitation of minors
• • 1 case of third degree sexual abuse

Following the outcry from community members, the department released the following statement:

Dear community members,

We would like to raise an important issue related to the handling of sexual assault cases in our community. Our main goal is to support and protect everyone involved and ensure their safety, dignity and wellbeing.

When reporting a sexual crime, it is common practice not to disclose the names of the perpetrators. This decision is made carefully and with the following important reasons in mind:

Protecting victims’ identities: Keeping perpetrators anonymous helps protect victims’ identities. Revealing the names of the accused can inadvertently expose victims to unwanted attention, stigmatization, and further trauma. Our community must stand in solidarity with survivors, respect their privacy, and help them recover.

Preventing family harassment: The families of the perpetrators are often innocent and unaware of the crimes committed. Publishing the names can lead to harassment, threats and unnecessary suffering for these family members, who may be subjected to unjustified hatred and social ostracism. We believe in protecting the mental and emotional well-being of all people, including those indirectly affected by such incidents.

By withholding names, we aim to create a respectful and supportive environment where justice can be sought without additional harm. We trust that these cases will be handled and resolved appropriately through the legal process, and emphasize that our primary concern is the protection and dignity of all involved.

We thank you for your understanding and cooperation in this matter. Let us continue to work together to create a safe, supportive and compassionate community.

Thank you very much.

Sincerely,

Monona Police Department

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