The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office received a report of enticement of a minor child and immediately started investigating. The investigation led to an arrest warrant as well as a search warrant for Jose Maria Bernal Jr. On 5/3/24 in the early morning, a Postville Police Officer located the subject driving on Highway 52 and 107th Street. Jose Maria Bernal Jr. was found in possession of a controlled substance with the intent to deliver. Jose Maria Bernal Jr. was also charged with operating while under the influence. Jose Maria Bernal Jr. was arrested and transported to the Winneshiek County Jail for D Felony, Enticing a Minor Under 16, Operating While Under the Influence and D Felony, Possession of Controlled Substance, with the intent to deliver. This incident remains under investigation.
The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Winneshiek County Attorney’s Office and Postville Police Department.