Hunter
12/14/23
An Iowa City man was arrested after allegedly recruiting two juveniles to steal cash from a restaurant.
Police say 30-year-old Terron Petersen of the Town and Campus Apartments on Arthur Street entered Shakespeare’s on 1st Avenue Sunday night along with the two juveniles that were in his care and went directly to the store’s cash bag. Staff members stated that the three had been there before and knew exactly where the cash bag was kept.
Petersen and the juveniles created a circle near the back counter to block employee’s view. He was speaking to the juveniles, and soon after the three allegedly took $580 from the cash bag and put it in their coat pockets. Afterward, the three reportedly casually asked a staff member to get them a glass of water. They then walked out of the bar.
Soon after, the employees noticed the cash was missing.
Police say Petersen and the juveniles have had multiple encounters with other businesses in the area where they have been trespassed or observed stealing. They also reportedly have asked employees to give them free items and when denied, caused a scene and started cursing at staff when they call the police.
A warrant for Petersen’s arrest was obtained Wednesday; he was taken into custody late the same day and charged with 4th degree Theft, Child Endangerment, and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor. If convicted on all counts, Petersen could be sentenced to over three years in jail.