Hunter
04/07/20
An Iowa City man who would only identify himself as “the Messiah” has been arrested after allegedly burglarizing an apartment building.
Police say 30-year-old Michael Welker of the 2800 block of Highway 6 East was observed on camera with an unnamed co-defendant forcing entry to an apartment building in the 100 block of South Dubuque Street just after midnight Tuesday. Welker was reportedly made aware of the presence of officers responding to the incident, and is accused of breaking a window to exit an apartment. He was located on the roof of the building, and allegedly had a backpack containing multiple stolen items.
While being arrested for his involvement in the burglary, Welker was asked to identify himself, and refused, allegedly stating he was “the Messiah.”
A check of court records shows previous arrest warrants were already issued for Welker on various charges, including 2nd degree Criminal Mischief, Unauthorized use of a Credit Card, and Possession of a Controlled Substance.
He was charged with 3rd degree Burglary, 5th degree Criminal Mischief, and Harassment of a public official. If convicted on those counts, Welker could be sentenced to over five years in prison.