The sexual abuse trial for former Oelwein mayor Jason Manus, has been rescheduled for next year.

The 36 year old Manus was set to go to trial beginning today (Oct. 22) in Fayette County District Court in West Union. However, his lawyer, Thomas Langlass of Waterloo, has withdrawn his representation. Manus' previous attorney, 51 year old David Roth, died September 23rd at Covenant Hospital.

The new trial date is set for April 22nd, 2015, starting at 9:30am.

Manus has pleaded not guilty to four counts of third degree sexual abuse and one count of second degree sex abuse; the alleged victims are a 9 year old girl and a 14 year old girl.

The incidents reportedly happened in 2010 in Oelwein. Manus is accused of inappropriate sexual contact with the two girls on separate occassions at a local residence, then warning the girls not to tell anyone.

After being charged with the crimes in August, Manus resigned as Oelwein's mayor. A special election was held earlier this month; councilperson and mayor pro tem Peggy Sherrets won a four-way race to finish out the term, to the end of 2015.

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