Former Truesdale resident Joseph L. Travis has been charged with three counts of first-degree child molestation for actions that allegedly took place almost 20 years ago.

Travis faces decades in prison if he is found guilty of having sexual contact with a child over several years, beginning in 1998.

An investigation into Travis’ actions began when the victim of the alleged crimes contacted the Warrenton Police Department in July. The victim reportedly was between the ages of 7 and 9 years old at the time of several incidents in Truesdale, where Travis resided.

According to a report seeking a warrant for Travis’ arrest, two incidents occurred at an apartment on South Street, and another in a field behind the Black Hawk Middle School track, between 1998 and 2000.

The victim told police that on multiple occasions, Travis forced the child to touch him sexually.

Travis was interviewed by police July 28, and reportedly admitted to the sexual contact. He allegedly stated he offered to buy gifts for the victim to prevent the child from telling anyone.

Travis was 18 years old in 1998 and is now 37. His address is in Warrenton, according to online court records.

The first-degree child molestation charges Travis now faces are Class C felonies punishable by three to 10 years in prison. A warrant for his arrest was issued Oct. 24 with a $30,000 bond.