Trial set for Ames man accused of burglary, sexual assault at local motel

Sept. 01--The trial for the Ames man who allegedly broke into a neighboring room at an Ames motel and sexually assaulted a woman earlier this month is set for Oct. 17.

Miguel Angel Marinez Garces, 32, was arrested Aug. 21, and charged with assault with intent to commit sexual abuse, second-degree burglary and third-degree harassment.

Marinez Garces pleaded not guilty in a written arraignment on Tuesday in Story County District Court.

According to court documents, Marinez Garces knocked on a door at Ames Motor Lodge Motel, 318 E. Lincoln Way, around 11:30 p.m.Aug. 20, and forced his way into the room. When the victim tried to shut the door, Marinez Garces prevented the woman from closing the door by placing his foot in the threshold, documents state.

Documents show Marinez Garces entered the room and grabbed the victim's waist before he began touching her inappropriately. The victim reported Marinez Garces stated he wanted to perform sexual acts on her, and attempted to remove her pants.

According to court documents, Marinez Garces reportedly locked the woman's room and then assaulted her again by pushing her down on a bed.

Court documents show the woman was able to get up from the bed and leave the room, and suffered no other injuries from the assault.

Marinez Garces remained held Thursday in the Story County Jail on $50,000 bond.

If convicted, Marinez Garces could face up to 12 years in prison.

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