Cedar Rapids man gets 10 years for child stealing

A Cedar Rapids man accused of trying to snatch a baby from a Clear Lake bar earlier this year now faces a 10-year prison sentence.

According to online court records, 34-year-old Jonathan L. Workman was sentenced to 10 years in prison for child stealing. Workman entered an Alford plea to the charge in August, records show. Under an Alford plea, Workman admits that enough evidence exists that a jury could reasonably find him guilty of the crime.

Three other charges – two counts of assault while participating in a felony and child endangerment – were dismissed, according to court records.

Workman was arrested on April 20 after surveillance video showed him trying to take an infant from a bar. Police said the baby's mother worked at the bar and was there that day to visit coworkers and change a diaper.

Workman tried to take the baby, but was thwarted by other bar patrons, police said. The baby was eventually returned to the mother.

Court records show Workman has a lengthy criminal history in Iowa.