GARVIN — A Garvin resident is facing three felony counts of criminal sexual conduct, one in the first degree and two in the third degree, for a series of reported sexual assaults.
On Feb. 28, Murray County law enforcement was dispatched to a residence in Garvin to investigate a report of sexual assault. The suspect was identified as Tony Dee Ammons, 61.
When officers arrived, they were met by a relative of Ammons who stated that Ammons had sexually assaulted his girlfriend on more than one occasion. Statements were also taken from Ammons and the victim.
According to the criminal complaint filed in Murray County, the victim reported three separate instances of sexual assault, the first of which occurred in 2022. During the first assault, Ammons reportedly shoved the victim against a counter, placed his hand around her neck, and grabbed the victim by the genitals.
Two similar instances reportedly occurred in January and early February. The victim stated that Ammons might still have cuts and bruises on his face sustained from the victim’s attempts to defend herself.
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According to the report, the victim, her boyfriend and Ammons live together at the residence. The victim stated that Ammons would frequently break into her room and steal her underwear. She said she did not feel safe with him living in the house.
Ammons reportedly admitted to sexually assaulting the victim and provided details similar to the victim’s account. He reportedly told one officer that he “thought it would help out, but it didn’t.” He did not explain that statement further.
Ammons also stated he did not remember the incidents well due to past head trauma. He stated he believed he had done it, but that he didn’t remember.
Ammons was arrested and transported to the Murray County Sheriff's Office. He was later transferred to the Lyon County Jail. Conditional bail was set at $120,000 and Ammons’ initial court appearance was scheduled for March 13.
If convicted, Ammons faces a maximum sentence of 30 years imprisonment, a $40,000 fine or both for the charge of first degree criminal sexual conduct. The two counts of third degree criminal sexual conduct each carry a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, a $30,000 fine or both.
Note: This article was written based on information reported by local law enforcement agencies. The Globe reminds readers that all individuals are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Southwest Crisis Center is available in our community to support and empower survivors of sexual and domestic violence. For questions about services or how you can help, contact the Southwest Crisis Center at 1-800-376-4311 or mnswcc.org .
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