Hunter
05/12/23
An Iowa City man was taken into custody earlier this week when he reportedly threatened to beat up a woman at his residence.
Officers responded to the I street home of 32-year-old Samuel McElmeel at 3pm Wednesday at the request of another resident out of concerns that he had been issuing threatening messages. Upon arrival, they discussed the callers concerns with McElmeel.
After speaking to McElmeel, officers attempted to speak to the victim. McElmeel came out of the residence, looked toward the alleged victim, and stated as soon as the police left, he was going to, quote, “beat the ess out of her.” Officers stated in the arrest report that the victim was clearly intimidated and upset, and said she was afraid that once they left, McElmeel would assault her.
McElmeel was placed under arrest, and post-Miranda allegedly stated that he was actively trying to expose the woman victim to trauma and fear.
He was charged with 2nd degree Harassment, a serious misdemeanor. If convicted, he could be sentenced to up to a year in jail.