Guardsman avoids prosecution for now

DICKINSON, N.D. (AP) — A North Dakota National Guardsman who served two tours in Iraq will not be prosecuted for allegedly molesting a girl in a Dickinson motel if he successfully completes probation.

Stark County prosecutor Jim Hope told The Dickinson Press that Charles Rousseau’s military service was a factor in Hope’s decision to use what’s known as a pretrial diversion in the case. Hope said the family of the girl the 47-year-old Rousseau allegedly molested also agreed.

Pretrial diversions involve the referral of a suspect to rehabilitation or restitution rather than prosecution. If the person meets the conditions, the criminal charges are dropped. The gross sexual imposition charge against Rousseau will be dropped after five years if he complies with conditions.

Rousseau’s attorney did not respond to Associated Press requests for comment.

Tags: news, crime, dickinson, sex, abuse