BAXTER – A Baxter man is behind bars after a sexual abuse investigation in Jasper County.

The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office reports that in August 2025, they initiated a sexual abuse investigation after concerns were reported by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. During this investigation, it was discovered that 36-year-old Kyle Ward allegedly engaged in multiple sex acts with a child in the Baxter/Jasper County area between 2021 and 2025.

Ward was taken into custody yesterday and is currently lodged in the Jasper County Jail awaiting his initial court appearance. He is charged with 5 counts of 2nd Degree Sexual Abuse, which are class “B” felonies.