SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) - A rural Garretson man charged with sexually abusing a woman for nearly 14 years has pleaded not guilty.
Ronald Neels, 52, is charged with 16 felony sex offenses, including two counts of first-degree rape and four counts of sexual contact with a child younger than 16.
The victim has told detectives that she was abused by Neels for 13 years, starting when she was 9.
Neels appeared in court for an arraignment Monday. He was given a January trial date after pleading not guilty.
Judge Mark Salter told Neels that he faces up to life in prison on the most serious rape charges.
Neels remains in custody at the Minnehaha County Jail on a $100,000 cash-only bond.
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