Iowa City woman allegedly followed victim around Goodwill with knife

Hunter
03/15/23

An Iowa City woman was arrested after allegedly following a woman around a store with an open pocket knife.

According to arrest reports, 37-year-old Elizabeth Leiss of Southgate Avenue was located by officers after responding to a call from the store at 6pm Monday about a female who threatened an individual with a knife.

The victim stated that Leiss had displayed a folding pocket knife in the open position. She said Leiss then followed her around the store with the knife at her side. Another pocket knife was found on another individual accompanying Leiss.

The victim stated that Leiss made comments about her staring and that she would get “cut.”

Officers report that Leiss had the odor of alcoholic beverages on her breath and slurred speech. She reportedly admitted to drinking earlier in the day. She refused chemical testing, and police say she fell asleep in the back of the patrol car on the way to jail.

Leiss was charged with Assault, 3rd degree Harassment and Public Intoxication. If convicted on both counts, she could be sentenced to up to 90 days in jail.