Arrests Made in Rural Minnesota Kidnapping & Sexual Assault Case

Eveleth, MN (KROC-AM News)- Charges are likely to be filed this week in connection with a rural Minnesota kidnapping and sexual assault case that took place over several days. 

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A news release issued Friday by the Minnesota BCA says two men are in custody in connection with the incident. They were arrested on Friday. 

The preliminary investigation accuses the two men in custody of sexually assaulting and beating a woman at a private residence in Eveleth on Nov. 27. 

The man at the residence was then kidnapped and taken to a different home in Eveleth where he was beaten and held against his will for what is being described as an extended period of time, the news release says. 

The victims escaped and fled the city on Dec. 1 and reported the incident to the BCA. They are described to be in stable condition. Their names are being withheld. 

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, resources are available for help. Visit the RAINN website (Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network) or dial 800-656-HOPE (800-656-4673).

Agents from the BCA and members of St. Louis County law enforcement agencies then executed search warrants and conducted several interviews before finding and arresting the suspects. They’re identified as 27-year-old Paul Anthony Debelak of Eveleth and 29-year-old Jacob Austin Holm of Eveleth. 

Debelak was apprehended on suspicion of criminal sexual conduct and Holm was arrested on suspicion of criminal sexual conduct and kidnapping. 

The men are being held at the St. Louis County Jail and are anticipated to be arranged at the St. Louis County Courthouse in Virginia. The BCA says the investigation remains active and ongoing. 

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