A man from rural Carlton County has been charged with the alleged sexual assault of a young teenager.
A 32-year-old man from Beseman Township, near Wright, has been arraigned this week in State District Court for a serious charge of first-degree criminal sexual conduct.
According to a criminal complaint, authorities have been informed about another potential victim, although Gould has not yet faced charges in connection with those allegations.
An agency initially received a report in June and then passed on the investigation to the Carlton County Sheriff’s Office. The alleged incident took place at Gould’s home on June 15.
A person, familiar to the accused, informed authorities that while she was sitting on a couch and covered by a blanket, he intruded by placing his hand into the back side of her pants. Afterward, she got up and made her way to the bathroom. While there, she sent a message to a friend, but soon came back, suspecting that it could have been a mistake.
However, it is reported that Gould persisted in reaching into her shorts and engaging in inappropriate sexual contact. There were several other individuals present at the time, seemingly oblivious to his actions. However, one person did remember seeing a blanket over the victim and Gould’s arm.
Later on, the teenager mentioned that Gould also sat on her legs and rubbed her buttocks. Investigators were able to confirm her story by speaking with her friend and obtaining copies of their messages.
Deputies reached out to Gould on June 17 after he allegedly expressed thoughts of suicide following the initial report. After ensuring his safety, he agreed to give a statement.
Gould reportedly admitted to consuming a few beers on that day, but firmly denied any inappropriate contact with the victim.
Investigators have also discovered another potential victim. She was around the same age about two years ago when she mentioned that Gould had also touched her inappropriately by reaching into her pants.
Judge Amy Lukasavitz has determined the bail amount, giving the option of $10,000 with conditions or $100,000 without. According to documents, he was released after his arraignment and agreed to be supervised by a probation officer. He also agreed to certain conditions, such as no contact with individuals under 18.
Gould’s upcoming court appearance is scheduled for November 6th.