Hunter
10/22/20
An Iowa City man has been arrested after allegedly beating his 70-year-old Uber driver.
According to police, 22-year-old Reese Phillips of South Johnson Street was getting a ride from an Uber Thursday, and a verbal argument ensued a little after 1:15am. He is accused of then striking the driver, which caused him to stop the car at the intersection of Clinton and Burlington streets and ask Phillips to get out of the car.
Once out of the car, Phillips began pushing and punching the driver. Phillips then got into the passenger seat. The driver tried to get him out of the car, but fell in the process. That’s when Phillips allegedly began striking him again while he was curled up. He then stood up and reportedly stomped on the man’s head.
Officers on scene report that the driver suffered a large contusion on his head, and a small cut. As for Phillips, he was observed with bloodshot watery eyes, had impaired balance, and the odor of ingested alcohol. He reportedly admitted to drinking and refused a PBT.
Phillips was taken into custody and charged with Willful Injury causing Bodily Injury and Public Intoxication. If convicted, he could be sentenced to over five years in prison.
