Man causes handcuff key to go through officer’s hand

IOWA CITY - Police arrested a Davenport man for allegedly grabbing an officer and causing a handcuff key to break an officer's skin.

Police arrested James W. Jacobs, 21, of Davenport on an alleged charge of assaulting a police officer on Sunday, March 27.

Officers said they responded to the area of Brown and Lucas Streets around 4:38 a.m. in response to a reported, intoxicated male bleeding from the head. Upon arrival police said they found Jacobs sitting in the caller's front yard.

Police said they immediately noticed Jacobs strong scent of alcohol, slurred speech and his inability to stand or walk without assistance.

Officers said Jacobs said he had no idea why his head was bleeding and actually accused one of the responding officers of punching him. Police reported that Jacobs used constant profanity towards officers and ambulance staff. He also refused to enter the ambulance and had to restrained him once in the ambulance bed.

Police said after reaching the University of Iowa Hospital, staff requested Jacobs be handcuffed to the bed there. While adjusting the handcuffs, police said, Jacobs grabbed  an officer, causing a handcuff key to go through his gloves and skin.

Assault on a peace officer is a Serious Misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum jail time of one year and fine of $1500.