An Ida County man has pleaded not guilty to charges of sexually abusing a child in Woodbury County.
Court records show 28‑year‑old Patrick Loft of Galva entered the plea on Monday to one count of second‑degree sexual abuse, a class B felony. Loft has not waived his right to a speedy trial.
Authorities say the alleged abuse happened at a home in Danbury on Nov. 30, 2025. According to a criminal complaint, Loft invited a child into a bedroom to watch a movie. Investigators say Loft then engaged in sexual contact with the child, stopping only when footsteps were heard outside the room. The child’s mother opened the door and discovered the incident, later reporting it to authorities.
A warrant for Loft’s arrest was issued on Jan. 6, and he was taken into custody the following day. He was booked into the Woodbury County Jail on a $20,000 bond.
If convicted, Loft could face up to 25 years in prison under Iowa law.
A pre‑trial conference is scheduled for March 11 at 1:30 p.m., with a jury trial set to begin March 17 in Woodbury County District Court.
Photo courtesy Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office
