An 89-year-old Booneville man is facing a grooming charge after investigators say he exchanged sexual communications with a 15-year-old girl who attended his church. Court records identify the suspect as John Arthur Gray. He is being held in the Dallas County Jail on a $5,000 cash or surety bond and is scheduled to return to court for a preliminary hearing later this month.
How the probe began
According to The Perry News, the investigation opened Nov. 5 after a pastor at a Johnston church raised concerns about Gray's interactions with the 15-year-old, who is reported to attend the same congregation. The outlet reports that court records show deputies sought a search warrant, which was approved and carried out on Nov. 20.
What investigators say they found
As reported by Raccoon Valley Radio, a search of Gray's phone allegedly uncovered electronic messages, calls and audio-video communications with the minor between April and November 2025. Court filings describe those communications as sexual in nature and intended to persuade the girl to engage in sexual conduct. The records also claim Gray repeatedly appeared at the teen's school events despite having no legitimate reason to be there. An arrest warrant filed Dec. 18 charged him with grooming and included a no-contact order protecting the girl.
Charges, bond and next hearing
A warrant for Gray's arrest was ordered Thursday and served Friday, and he remains booked at the Dallas County Jail on a $5,000 cash or surety bond, according to The Perry News. He is due for a preliminary hearing on Dec. 29 in Dallas County District Court.
Legal implications
The Iowa Legislature created the crime of grooming under Iowa Code section 709.8A and designated it as a class "D" felony, according to the bill text. State judicial information indicates a class D felony can carry a prison term of up to five years and fines of several thousand dollars, although the actual sentence depends on the details of the case and any special sentencing rules that apply.
What comes next
Gray is presumed innocent, and the Dec. 29 preliminary hearing will focus on whether prosecutors present enough evidence to move ahead with formal charges. Future filings and hearings in Dallas County District Court will determine how the case proceeds and whether it ultimately goes to trial.
