CHEROKEE, Iowa — A Cherokee man has been arrested and charged with multiple serious felonies, including ongoing criminal conduct and first-degree theft, following an investigation into alleged offenses dating back to the summer of 2024.
Daniel Dean Winchell, 64, was taken into custody by the Cherokee Police Department on Monday, December 8, 2025.
According to court records filed in Cherokee County District Court, Winchell faces three felony counts: One count of Ongoing Criminal Conduct – Influence Enterprise, a Class B Felony. Two counts of Theft in the First Degree, both Class C Felonies.
The criminal complaints indicate that the alleged offenses occurred on or around July 3, 2024.
Following the filing of criminal complaints on December 4 and 5, an arrest warrant was issued last Friday. Winchell was served with the warrant on Monday and made his initial court appearance the following day, December 9.
Winchell is being held in Cherokee County Jail on a $50,000 bond, with Ryan R. Kolpin listed as the prosecuting County Attorney.
Winchell is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 3:00 PM at the Cherokee County Courthouse. During this hearing, the court will determine if there is enough evidence to proceed with the charges.
