Coralville Man Charged in Iowa City Car Burglary

Suspect allegedly used stolen credit cards at local businesses

Feb. 1, 2026 at 1:15pm

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A 30-year-old Coralville man has been arrested and charged with multiple counts related to a car burglary in Iowa City last September, including unauthorized use of a credit card, theft, and burglary. Security footage allegedly shows the suspect using a stolen credit card and riding off on the victim's bicycle after the incident.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing problem of property crime in the Iowa City area, with thieves targeting vehicles and using stolen cards at local businesses. It also raises questions about repeat offenders and the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in deterring such crimes.

The details

According to police, on the morning of September 17th, Jerome Brooks shattered the window of a vehicle in an Iowa City parking garage and stole a wallet containing money, a debit card, and a credit card. Brooks then allegedly left the scene on the car owner's Trek bicycle. Security footage reportedly shows Brooks using one of the stolen cards at a local Casey's convenience store shortly after the burglary.

  • On September 17th, the car burglary occurred.
  • On the morning of September 17th, Brooks allegedly used the stolen credit card at a Casey's store.
  • In June and August of the previous year, Brooks was also wanted for allegedly using stolen credit cards at an Iowa City McDonald's and Evergreen Smoke Shop.

The players

Jerome Brooks

A 30-year-old Coralville resident who has been charged with multiple counts related to the Iowa City car burglary, including unauthorized use of a credit card, theft, and burglary.

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What’s next

Brooks is currently being held in the Johnson County Jail. If convicted on all charges, he could face up to 16 years in prison.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenge of property crime in the Iowa City area, with thieves targeting vehicles and using stolen cards at local businesses. It underscores the need for continued vigilance and effective law enforcement strategies to deter such crimes and protect the community.