Trial Dates Set for Charles City Man, Waverly Woman Accused of Financially Exploiting Elderly Victims

Trial dates have been for a Northeast Iowa man and woman facing felony charges after they were accused of exploiting elderly victims out of almost $40,000.

Waverly Police (WPD) arrested 49-year-old Renee Owens of Waverly and 27-year-old Jonathon Owens of Charles City in August following a financial exploitation investigation that determined two older Waverly residents lost more than $38,000. Both suspects lived in Waverly at the time of the alleged crimes.

According to criminal complaints, the two abused power of attorney rights over two individuals between May 2025 and March 2026. In that 11-month period, the Waverly victims’ purchase history skyrocketed by 300 percent. 

WPD investigators say Renee spent more than $34,000 on streaming subscriptions, gas, online gaming, TikTok Shop, various bills, camping, vehicle repairs, retail shopping and cash withdrawals. Jonathon is accused of spending more than $4,000 of the victim’s money on online gaming, veterinary bills and vehicle repairs.

With the level of her alleged illegal expenses,  Renee Owens’ charge of financial exploitation of an older individual is a Class B felony, punishable by up to 25 years in prison and maximum $100,000 fines. Jonathon Owens’ charge is a Class D felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and fines of more than $10,000. 

Earlier this week, both entered not guilty pleas in Bremer County District Court, with trial for Renee Owens scheduled for October 13th and trail for Johnathon Owens slated for December 3rd.

Jonathan Owens is free awaiting trial after posting bail of $5,000 surety bond. Renee Owens remains held in the Bremer County Jail on a $25,000 cash or surety bond.