Cedar Rapids man sentenced to 25 years for sexually abusing infant

A Cedar Rapids man, Aaron Jacob Wingerson, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for sexually abusing a 3-month-old infant. The abuse was recorded on a video phone app set up by the baby's parents, who were nearby when they witnessed the assault and rushed to intervene. Wingerson, 29, pleaded guilty in February to second-degree sexual abuse, while a related charge of lascivious acts with a child was dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

During the sentencing, Judge Ian Thornhill mandated that Wingerson serve at least 70 percent of his sentence—17 and a half years—before he is eligible for parole. Additionally, he will be required to register as a sex offender and will serve a lifetime of special parole conditions. The judge also issued a five-year no-contact order to protect the victim.

The incident occurred when Wingerson was left alone with the infant while the parents briefly stepped outside on February 15, 2024. They monitored the baby through a FaceTime call and witnessed the abuse. Upon realizing they could not enter the apartment with their keys, the parents kicked down the door, but Wingerson fled once he noticed the recording phone. Law enforcement later apprehended him, and he admitted to having planned the assault in advance.

Linn County Attorney Nick Maybanks expressed relief that the parents reported the incident immediately, allowing police to respond quickly. He emphasized the heinous nature of child sexual abuse and the profound impact it has on victims and their families. Maybanks pointed out that this case was particularly disturbing given the age of the victim, who was still an infant.

Maybanks expressed hope that the family could begin to heal now that Wingerson has received a significant sentence for his actions. He also noted the importance of providing Wingerson with the necessary help during his incarceration to prevent future offenses.