CHEROKEE – A man reported missing earlier this winter in northwest Iowa was found dead on Sunday. KCCI-TV reports the remains of Joseph Kosiba were found in a field east of Cherokee. An autopsy is underway to try and determine the cause of death of Kosiba, who was reported missing in January.

DES MOINES – The Iowa Senate unanimously passed a bill to make changes to a law related to chronic absenteeism in schools. WHO-13 reports the measure requires the Iowa Department of Education to consult with county attorneys to set a standard policy for truancy charges. It also adds exemptions for excused absences to include weddings, funerals, and military programs. It also removes requirements to use certified mail and adds options for meetings with parents.

HENRY COUNTY – A family is suing the Henry County Sheriff, claiming they are the victims of wild west justice. Iowa Capital Dispatch reports Curtis and Lori Wagler are suing Sheriff Rich McNamee and Deputy Carlos Lopez for false arrest and malicious prosecution. They point to Lopez and his appearance on the county’s Brady-Giglio list, which refers to police known to be untruthful by prosecutors. In April 2023, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office conduced a warrant for financial records and arrested the couple and their son, Owen, and allegedly subjected them to body cavity searches. Their felony charges were dismissed that November.