Dubuque, Iowa — Obet Jally, a 30-year-old man, was arrested Friday, June 5, 2026, at 845 W. Locust St. on four felony charges related to the alleged sexual exploitation of a minor.

Jally faces the following charges:

•  Sexual Exploitation of a Minor (Cause to Engage in Act)

•  Prostitution — Purchasing Services of Person Under 18

•  Two counts of Enticing a Minor Under 16 for Sexual Purposes

All charges are felonies. He was taken into custody following the issuance of a warrant earlier this year.

Court Proceedings

According to Dubuque County court records (Case No. 01311 FECR163613), Jally made his initial appearance Friday before Judge Mark T. Hostager. The court set a $100,000 cash appearance bond, issued a no-contact order, and scheduled related hearings. A pre-trial release evaluation was also ordered. Attorney Joshua Ryan Sims has entered an appearance in the case.

The charges stem from criminal complaints filed by the Dubuque Police Department on March 26, 2026. An order to issue a warrant was signed by Judge Hostager on March 26 and processed the following day.

As of Friday afternoon, Jally remained in custody. Court records list additional discovery and procedural orders entered the same day.

This case remains active in the Iowa court system. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Article Reference: AR 2026003665