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Pretrial set in Juda sex assault case
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MONROE - A pretrial conference is scheduled for April to allow for more discovery in the case of a Juda man accused of sexually assaulting an unconscious woman.

James E. Rackow, 48, did not appear Tuesday in Green County Circuit Court, but was instead represented by his attorney Peter Kind. Rackow has a pretrial conference set for April 7.

Rackow pleaded not guilty Oct. 1 to second-degree sexual assault of an unconscious victim, a Class C felony, and burglary, a Class E Felony. If convicted for the maximum penalty on all counts, Rackow could face up to $150,000 in fines or 55 years imprisonment or both.

Court records indicate that on Aug. 31, several people attended a pool party in Juda, including the alleged victim and Rackow, who had both been drinking. The Juda woman was possibly unconscious when Rackow allegedly entered the home she was staying at and sexually assaulted her. A witness entered the residence and saw Rackow on top of the victim. The witness told law enforcement that Rackow got up and quickly dressed before leaving at about 9 p.m.

The victim said she "blacked out" at about 8:30 p.m. and fell asleep in the living room.

Four witnesses were called for a preliminary hearing Sept. 12, and though there was conflicting testimony about whether or not the victim was unconscious during the alleged assault, it was determined there was probable cause that a sexual assault had occurred.

Rackow remains free on bond with conditions that he have no contact with the four individuals who were present the night of the incident.