Des Moines man accused of hate crime in Iowa City

IOWA CITY - Authorities are calling a Des Moines man's alleged harassment and assault of a woman at the Old Capitol Town Center this weekend a hate crime.

Iowa City police were called to the mall, 201 S. Clinton St., at 4:45 p.m. Saturday for a report of someone making threats. Officers received reports of Roy L. Hudson, 50, of Des Moines, making sexual comments toward the victim, who works at the mall.

Police said the victim rejected Hudson's remarks and told him it was against her religion. Hudson allegedly then threatened to kill the woman by cutting her throat, police said.

Hudson made other remarks 'directed toward her religion and nationality,” police said. A news release and criminal complaints do not indicate the woman's nationality or religion.

After talking with Hudson, police arrested him and he now faces charges of first-degree harassment, an aggravated misdemeanor; and assault - violation of individual rights; a hate crime and serious misdemeanor. He was also wanted on a warrant from the Des Moines Police Department for obstructing a court order.

Police said they believe this was an isolated incident.

If convicted of both offenses, Hudson could spend up to three years in prison.

l Comments: (319) 398-8238; lee.hermiston@thegazette.com