The suspect in the kidnapping and killing of a Cedar Rapids girl is now charged with murder. 37-year-old Roger Bentley of Brandon appeared in court via video hook up from the Johnson County jail. He is charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping in the death of 10-year-old Jetseta Gage of Cedar Rapids. Bentley had already been charged with child stealing in the case. Gage was taken from her home Thursday and her body was found Friday in an old mobile home in Johnson County. An autopsy determined Gage died of asphyxiation and there is reportedly evidence that the girl had been sexually abused. Gage has also allegedly been abused in the past by Bentley’s brother James, who is charged with second-degree sexual abuse. Gage’s funeral is tomorrow.
