A 29-year-old Holden man has been charged with sex-related felonies involving a juvenile.

According to court records, on or about March 14, 2022, Michael Joseph Howard is alleged to have knowingly possessed child pornography that was a visual depiction of a person less than 18 years of age engaged in sexually-explicit conduct (exposing herself). Between September 1 and October 1, 2021, Howard also is alleged to have had sexual intercourse with a female, who at that time, was less than 17 years old. During his interview, authorities say Howard acknowledged a single act of sexual intercourse had occurred. They also say he admitted to having the explicit picture of the female on his cell phone.

Court documents say Howard is charged with felonies for possession of child pornography- first offense, and statutory rape in the second degree. Bond is set at $50,000 cash only.

Howard pleaded not guilty during his initial appearance on Wednesday, March 16. A counsel-status hearing is scheduled to be held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 23, at Johnson County Circuit Court.

Photo courtesy the Johnson County Sheriff’s Department.