A Polk County man already jailed on multiple felony charges is now facing seven additional charges, including aggravated sexual assault and bestiality, after another alleged victim came forward to investigators.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office announced that the latest alleged victim came forward on Aug. 17 as investigators continue looking into allegations involving Cody Allen Laviolette, 36.
The investigation began May 23 following the suspicious death of 31-year-old Kelly Taylor Mariah Little at Laviolette’s residence. Little left behind three children.
As that investigation progressed, witnesses and alleged victims began coming forward with information about Laviolette. The sheriff’s office said some alleged victims have felt more comfortable speaking with investigators while Laviolette remains in custody because it has eased concerns about their safety.
The latest allegations resulted in seven additional charges against Laviolette:
- Assault of a family or household member impeding breath or circulation, a third-degree felony;
- Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, a second-degree felony;
- Aggravated sexual assault, a first-degree felony;
- Two counts of sexual assault, both second-degree felonies;
- Bestiality, a state jail felony; and
- Unlawful restraint exposing a person to serious bodily injury, a third-degree felony.
The charges add to those previously filed against Laviolette. On July 10, Laviolette was arrested on charges of aggravated assault, a second-degree felony, and unlawful restraint, a third-degree felony.
Additional charges were filed July 16 for continuous sexual abuse of a child, a first-degree felony, and aggravated assault causing serious bodily injury with a deadly weapon, also a first-degree felony.
Based on the charges announced by the sheriff’s office to date, Laviolette is now facing 11 felony charges.
Investigators believe there could be additional alleged victims who have not yet come forward. The sheriff’s office is encouraging anyone who believes they were victimized by Laviolette to contact investigators, regardless of how long ago the alleged incident occurred.
The sheriff’s office has not announced any charges against Laviolette directly related to Little’s death, which continues to be described as suspicious.
Anyone with information, or who believes they may be a victim, is asked to contact Detective Craig Finegan or Detective Jessi Stanton at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at 936-327-6810.
Should also be charged for misuse of a sharpie…