DUBUQUE, Iowa — February 28, 2026 — A 39-year-old Dubuque resident was arrested Thursday night on serious felony charges involving the alleged sexual abuse of a child relative.

Terry John Ruble (White male, 39, 5’11”, 178 lbs) was taken into custody around 8:39 p.m. on February 27, 2026, at Kaufmann Ave and Carter Rd by law enforcement, including Officer J.D. Waddick.

According to Dubuque Law Enforcement Center records (case FECR163261), Ruble faces three charges:

•  Sexual Abuse 3rd Degree – Child Victim Related by Blood (Class C felony)

•  Lascivious Conduct with a Minor – Aggravated

•  Incest (felony)

He remains in custody awaiting court appearance. Bond is set at $200,000 cash on the lead charge, with no additional bond listed for the others.

Legal Background

Under Iowa law:

•  Sexual Abuse 3rd Degree (§ 709.4) involves non-consensual sexual acts, with enhancements for child victims and familial relationships.

•  Incest (§ 709.15 or related) prohibits sexual activity between close blood relatives, especially involving minors.

•  Aggravated lascivious conduct (§ 709.8 or § 709.12) covers indecent acts with minors under 14 (or 16), aggravated by factors like trust abuse or repetition.

Convictions could mean years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration. The accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Details about the victim, incident timeline, or how the case surfaced remain undisclosed. Authorities emphasize victim safety and encourage reporting to Dubuque Police or Iowa HHS.

This is a developing case; updates will follow court proceedings. Refer to official sources like the Dubuque County jail roster or courts for the latest information.

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