Lang
8/1/24
Iowa City Police say a shoplifting suspect began throwing tomatoes at Hy-Vee staff who caught him in the act.
According to arrest records, 22-year-old Luis Yepez-Hernandez of Cross Park Avenue was caught trying to steal items from the Waterfront Hy-Vee just after 8:15 Saturday night. Police say when he was confronted, Yepez-Hernandez began throwing tomatoes at Hy-Vee staff and made vague statements about fighting them, including “going out back” to handle the situation.
Arriving police found Yepez-Hernandez in the parking lot. He allegedly refused commands to stop and fled southbound on Boyrum Street. Yepez-Hernandez was eventually caught, although police say he took a fighting stance and began twirling his fists in a circle to indicate he was ready to fight. He eventually surrendered under threat of a taser.
Yepez-Hernandez is charged with Assault, Interference With Official Acts and two counts of 3rd Degree Harassment. If convicted on all counts, he faces a maximum of 120 days in jail.