CHEROKEE, IA (Northwestiowanow) — Former Cherokee auto dealer Dan Winchell has been released from jail following a high-profile theft and criminal conduct case.

According to court records, Winchell’s $50,000 cash-only bond was lowered to $25,000 on December 23 after his attorney, Michael Kuehner, argued the original amount was too high and Winchell could not raise the funds.

On December 24, Winchell posted bond and was released from the Cherokee County Jail on Christmas Eve under conditions that include surrendering his passport.

Winchell was arrested December 8 on multiple felony charges, including ongoing criminal conduct and first-degree theft. Prosecutors allege the former Holzhauer Motors dealer collected title and registration fees without forwarding them to county treasurers, sold dozens of vehicles “out of trust,” and failed to repay lenders. Court filings suggest the misconduct involved 63 to 80 vehicles dating back to summer 2024.

Winchell’s initial charges remain in place, and the investigation remains active with additional court proceedings expected in early January.