Lang
10/2/22
An Iowa City man accused of abusing his dog faces an additional assault charge after allegedly punching a bystander who tried to intervene.
Iowa City Police were called to the Ped Mall in front of TCB at 1:30 Saturday afternoon for a report of a subject making threats while holding a knife. A second caller reported a man abusing his dog in front of Brother’s and threatening to stab the reporting party.
Arriving officers say they observed 51-year-old Justin Meade of East Washington Street arguing with other subjects and threatening to assault them. Witnesses claim Meade had been punching, kicking and choking his dog. When one subject tried to intervene, Meade reportedly punched the person in the face, causing a laceration on the victim’s nose.
Police say Meade appeared to be heavily intoxicated. He was arrested and charged with Assault Causing Bodily Injury, Animal Neglect and Cruelty and Public Intoxication. If convicted on all charges, he faces a maximum of 14 months in jail.
There is no indication if a knife was found on Meade’s person.