Iowa City Man Arrested After Eluding Police

Warrants Issued for Violation of No-Contact Order

Jan. 27, 2026 at 1:55pm

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A 30-year-old Iowa City man, Jamal McKaufman, was arrested last week after allegedly failing to stop for police and having outstanding warrants related to a no-contact order. According to the arrest report, McKaufman ignored police lights, sirens, and orders to pull over, before finally stopping near his home address.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in dealing with individuals who violate no-contact orders, which are put in place to protect victims of domestic violence. The case also raises questions about how to balance public safety with the rights of accused individuals.

The details

McKaufman allegedly went to the home of the subject of the no-contact order on November 11th to retrieve his belongings, despite the order prohibiting him from doing so without law enforcement supervision. During the visit, the woman called 911, reporting a physical altercation in which McKaufman allegedly knocked her glasses off her face, breaking them. When police arrived, the victim confirmed the incident. McKaufman now faces up to eight years in prison if convicted on charges including eluding, violation of a no-contact order, assault, and child endangerment.

  • On November 11th, McKaufman allegedly violated the no-contact order.
  • Last week, McKaufman was arrested for eluding police.

The players

Jamal McKaufman

A 30-year-old Iowa City resident with outstanding warrants related to a no-contact order.

The subject of the no-contact order

The victim who called 911 during the November 11th incident, reporting a physical altercation with McKaufman.

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What they’re saying

“McKaufman told officers that he wasn't trying to elude, he wasn't going to stop, and was going to his home address.”

— Jamal McKaufman

What’s next

The judge will decide on McKaufman's bail and whether he will be allowed to await trial outside of custody.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in enforcing no-contact orders and the need for a balanced approach that protects victims while also considering the rights of the accused.