The Louisa County Sheriff’s Office, working in partnership with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (Child Protection Services), the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Columbus Junction Police Department, conducted a significant child protective operation on June 12th and 13th. The joint effort led to the execution of search warrants at two locations: 10431 Q Avenue, Columbus Junction, and 1101 5th Avenue, Fredonia.
Authorities initiated the operation following reports of child endangerment. The effort focused on ensuring the welfare of children associated with the Kingdom Ministry of Rehab and Recreation and the Shekinah Glory Camp.
In total, 88 children were taken into protective custody during the operation. The children were safely transported to the Wapello Methodist Church, where they were met by multiple child protection workers. From there, arrangements were made to reunite children with their parents, or place them with temporary foster care or under the supervision of HHS, pending further safety evaluations.
The Wapello Methodist Church, Wapello Community Ambulance, Wapello Community School, local food pantries, and numerous volunteers assisted with care and logistics throughout the process.
The investigation remains ongoing. Officials remind the public that a criminal charge or report is merely an accusation, and any defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.