Iowa City man accused of unwanted touching and using racial slurs

Hunter
09/22/23

An Iowa City man was arrested Tuesday after an incident on the Ped Mall where he allegedly was intoxicated and touched the rear end of a victim.

Officers were called just before 7pm because 35-year-old Joseph Lonier of Gilbert Court allegedly walked up behind the victim and proceeded to place his hand on the victim’s rear end.  He then reportedly called the victim a racial slur when the son of the victim confronted him.  Lonier ran off, but was called in by at least one person for being belligerent and using racial slurs.

Upon contact, Lonier was allegedly observed with red watery eyes and slurred speech. He reportedly refused a PBT, but stated he knew he was drunk.

Lonier was charged with Assault and Public Intoxication. Trial has been set for November 1st. If convicted on both charges, he could be sentenced to up to 60 days in jail.