The producer of the Cyclone Television Network faces up to two years in jail and a $5,000 fine if convicted of stalking an Ames woman for more than a year in a trial set to begin in August.

Bob Helmers was charged with stalking Roseann Swenson of Ames on June 27 by the Story County Attorney. He posted a $6,500 bond and was released with a no contact order. The trial date is set for August 25.

He is accused of harassing Swenson by leaving threatening messages and pornographic material at her workplace. Helmers also allegedly let air out of the tires of Swenson’s car and followed her.

Police are investigating whether Helmers set up an account on the Internet dating site SwingVillage and entered personal information and photos of Swenson without her consent.

Police records indicate that Swenson started getting harassed after a relationship with Helmers ended.

The incidents took place between January 2004 and May 2005. Helmers pleaded not guilty to the charges on June 30.

To be charged with a stalking charge the defendant must engage in conduct that would cause a reasonable person to fear bodily injury or death.

Court documents show William Talbot, Helmer’s lawyer, motioned to have the charges dismissed. Talbot argued that police reports indicated Swenson was never in danger of physical harm or death.

In his dismissal petition, Talbot said Swenson stated, “she was not really concerned about her own personal safety” when interviewed by the police.

Talbot said he was prohibited from discussing details from the case.

Ames police officials said the investigation is ongoing.

Helmers is the executive producer of Cyclone Television Network which televises ISU athletic events.

He is also the producer for ESPN regional, which televises U of I football games.