Cherokee Man Arrested for Exploitation of a Minor

75-year-old Leon Klotz charged with sexual exploitation and grooming

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A 75-year-old man from Cherokee, Iowa has been arrested and charged with sexual exploitation of a minor and grooming after he attempted to meet with an undercover officer, whom he believed to be a 15-year-old boy, for sex in Sutherland, Iowa.

Why it matters

The case highlights the ongoing issue of adults attempting to exploit and sexually abuse minors, which is a serious crime with significant consequences. It also demonstrates the efforts of law enforcement to proactively identify and apprehend individuals engaged in these predatory behaviors.

The details

According to court documents, Leon Klotz was arrested on February 11 after engaging in conversations with an undercover police officer, whom he believed to be a 15-year-old boy. Klotz was charged with Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, a class B felony, and grooming, a class D felony. He posted a $5,000 bond and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on February 23.

  • Klotz was arrested on February 11, 2026.
  • Klotz's preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 23, 2026.

The players

Leon Klotz

A 75-year-old man from Cherokee, Iowa who was arrested and charged with sexual exploitation of a minor and grooming.

Undercover Officer

A law enforcement officer who posed as a 15-year-old boy in order to apprehend Klotz.

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What’s next

Klotz's preliminary hearing on February 23 will determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed with the case against him.

The takeaway

This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to identify and apprehend individuals engaged in the exploitation and abuse of minors, and the serious consequences that such actions can have.