Police in Council Bluffs, Wednesday, arrested 69-year old Hershal James “Jim” Ratliff of Council Bluffs, on numerous sex offense charges. Ratliff was taken into custody on four Counts of Sexual Abuse in the 3rd Degree, one Count each of Lascivious Acts with a Minor, Solicit Commercial Sexual Activity and Indecent Exposure. Thee charges stem from an investigation by the Council Bluffs Police Department that began in August 2019.

Hershal “Jim” Ratliff (CB-PD photo)

Authorities say a juvenile female had provided detectives with information on Ratliff’s involvement in criminal sexual activity. In January 2020, a second female came forward and provided additional, similar information on Ratliff’s criminal activity. With that information, detectives were able to request warrants for offenses mentioned. Officials says the investigation is on-going Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Council Bluffs Police Department at 712-328-4728.