Lang
8/6/24
A transient is accused of threatening passersby and yelling racial slurs on the Ped Mall.
Iowa City Police were called to the 100 block of East College Street just after 3:30 Friday afternoon after 36-year-old Joseph Lonier allegedly approached two men, told them he would assault them, and called them racial slurs. A physical altercation ensued before officers could arrive.
Police say Lonier showed clear signs of intoxication and admitted he was drunk. He allegedly said he caused the confrontation because he wanted to go to jail.
Lonier is charged with Public Intoxication and Disorderly Conduct. If convicted on both counts, he faces a maximum of 60 days in jail.