MOUNT PLEASANT – A Mount Pleasant woman accused of engaging in a sexual relationship with an inmate and smuggling contraband into a correctional facility has pleaded guilty to one felony charge as part of a plea agreement.

Kimberly Jo Kerr, 47, a former counselor at the Mount Pleasant Correctional Facility, pleaded guilty Monday in Henry County District Court to one count of conveying contraband in or onto the grounds of a correctional facility without a weapon—a Class D felony. In exchange for the guilty plea, two additional charges were dismissed: ongoing criminal conduct-unlawful activity (Class B felony) and sexual exploitation by a counselor or therapist (Class D felony).

Kerr now faces up to five years in prison and a potential fine. Her sentencing is scheduled for 9 a.m. on September 22 at the Henry County Courthouse.

The charges stem from allegations that between July and October 2024, Kerr maintained an inappropriate relationship with an inmate and helped smuggle contraband—including tobacco—into the facility. According to court records and a criminal complaint, Kerr and the inmate allegedly engaged in sexual activity in private counselor rooms. Investigators say Kerr denied physical contact but admitted to a romantic relationship.

Authorities also uncovered “love letters” from Kerr to the inmate and reported that Kerr helped facilitate the sale of contraband through a third-party Cash App account, receiving more than $5,600 in payments over several months. Witnesses stated that the contraband originated from the inmate and had been supplied by Kerr.

A warrant for Kerr’s arrest was issued on February 25. She was taken into custody by Mount Pleasant Police the same day and released after posting a $35,000 bond.

The Iowa Department of Corrections has declined to comment on the case or Kerr’s current employment status.

Kerr is being represented by defense attorney Steve Ort.

With August upon us, thoughts turn to “Back to School” and here are a few things to put on your calendar!

Henry County Public Health is hosting a “Back to School Health Fair” on Monday, August 11^th from 4p-7p at MPCSD Central Campus Gym.  The back-to-school fair provides families with information, immunizations, and screenings.  Please find details at KILJ.com, community calendar for August 11^th.

The Fellowship Cup in Mt. Pleasant is holding the annual school supply distribution on Monday, August 18^th from 10am – 2pm in the community room, 203 N. Jefferson Street.  Basic school supplies for each grade level will be provided and there is no need to sign up.

The Fellowship Cup is also looking for help in restocking their pantry with canned fruit.  Requested items include applesauce, peaches, pears, pineapple, fruit cocktail, and apricots.  The items will help supplement groceries for Fellowship clients.  Please drop items off on Monday and Thursday from 8am-4pm or call 319-385-3242.

The Midwest Central Railroad is looking for conductors for the Old Threshers Reunion August 28^th through September 1^st.  Collecting tickets, greeting and assisting passengers, sharing history and facts are all part of the duties; plus, conductors get to dress in a cool uniform from the past!  A conductor must be 16 years of age or older and a junior conductor must be at least 12 years of age.    Visit mcrr.org for more information or contact the head conductor, Ryan Johnson at ryan.johnsonmcrr@gmail.com!

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources announces two Hunter Education Classes in Henry and Louisa counties for hunters who need to get certified.

In Henry County, a hunter education course will also be held on Saturday, August 19 at Aim High Shooting in Salem. The class, which runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. teaches students basic survival and first aid skills, water safety, wildlife identification, the basics of wildlife management, hunting laws, and firearm/archery safety.

The Langwood Education Center in Wapello is holding classes on Thursday, August 17 from 6-9 p.m. and Saturday, August 19 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday’s field day is required for hunters under 18, however online courses are available in place of the first class on Thursday. Most online courses carry a fee.

Iowa residents born after January 1, 1972, and nonresidents born after January 1,1967 must complete a hunter education course to obtain a hunting license. Participants for either course must be at least 11 years old, however certificates are not valid until the child’s 12th birthday.

To register for either hunter education course, or to view more courses in Iowa, go to the Iowa DNR website.

The Danville City Council will meet in regular session on Monday, August 4^th at Danville City Hall.  A public hearing to discuss scope and specifications of proposed AMI improvements will begin at 5pm and the council will hear comments from the public on the projects.  A second public hearing regarding the authorization of a loan and disbursement agreement will be held at 5:15pm.  The Regular session meeting will begin immediately following public hearings.  Amending sewer rates for the next five years is on the agenda and all meetings are open to the public.