INDEPENDENCE – On Wednesday, February 5, 2025, the Independence Police Department arrested thirty-two (32) year old Austin Lavern Thein for sex offenses against a child. It was reported on Friday, January 31, 2025, that Thein was in possession of sexually explicit images and video of a child on his personal cell phone. Thein’s phone was seized and searched pursuant to a search warrant. As a result of the investigation, Thein was charged with Sexual Abuse — 2nd Degree, Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Grooming, Indecent Exposure, and three (3) counts of Indecent Contact with a Child.
- Sexual Abuse — 2nd Degree is a Class B Felony and is punishable by up to twenty-five (25) years imprisonment.
- Sexual Exploitation of a Minor is a Class D Felony and is punishable by up to five (5) years imprisonment.
- Grooming is a Class D Felony and is punishable by up to five (5) years imprisonment.
- Indecent Exposure is an Aggravated Misdemeanor and is punishable by up to two (2) years imprisonment.
- Indecent Contact with a Child is an Aggravated Misdemeanor and is punishable by up to two (2) years imprisonment.
The Independence Police Department was assisted by the Manchester Police Department, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, and St. Luke’s Child Protection Center in Hiawatha.
NOTICE: A criminal charge is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
