Dickinson man arrested for sexually abusing child – The Dickinson Press

DICKINSON – A 24-year-old Dickinson man was arrested for continuous sexual abuse of a child, a Class AA felony, according to a Dickinson police news release.

Lukas Walter Dougherty was taken into custody following an investigation by Dickinson Police detectives and transported to the Southwest Multi-County Correctional Center, a facility that serves several counties in the region and is equipped to handle high-profile offenders.

Police received a report alleging that Dougherty had engaged in sexual activity with a minor. Upon investigation, investigators determined that Dougherty had allegedly sexually assaulted the victim on multiple occasions over the past month. Based on their findings, investigators established probable cause to arrest Dougherty on July 10.

Continuous sexual abuse of a child is a Class AA felony in North Dakota, the highest level of crime in the state, which carries severe penalties, including the possibility of prison time. Police stressed that Dougherty, like all other defendants, is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.

The Stark County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that Dougherty’s bail was set at $250,000 and that he was ordered by the court to have no contact with the victim and members of his family.

The investigation is ongoing and no further details have been released at this time. Dickinson Police are asking anyone with additional information about this case to come forward and assist with the investigation.

This arrest comes as part of a broader effort by local and state authorities to combat child sexual abuse and assist victims. A variety of initiatives and resources are available for victims and their families, including counseling services and legal representation.

James B. Miller, Jr. is the publisher of The Dickinson Press in Dickinson, North Dakota. He strives to provide community-driven, professional, hyperlocal coverage of southwest North Dakota.