Iowa City Man Arrested for Alleged Laundry Theft

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A 64-year-old Iowa City man named Milton Gray was arrested this month on a warrant stemming from a laundry theft incident in January. Gray was observed on video taking clothing from a dryer that did not belong to him, and he claimed he took the clothes at the direction of a third party, but that person denied Gray's story. The value of the stolen clothes was estimated at over $1,500, and Gray now faces up to 5 years in prison on a 2nd degree Theft charge.

Why it matters

Laundry theft is an ongoing issue in apartment complexes and laundromats, with thieves often targeting expensive clothing and linens. This case highlights how security cameras and diligent reporting can help authorities apprehend suspects, though the motivations behind such crimes are often complex.

The details

According to court records, Milton Gray was observed on video surveillance on January 18th taking clothing from a dryer at the Town and Campus Apartments on Arthur Street in Iowa City. When interviewed by police, Gray claimed he took the clothes at the direction of a third party, but that person denied Gray's story. The total value of the stolen clothes was estimated to be over $1,500.

• On January 18, Gray was observed on video taking the clothes from the dryer.
• On January 29, a warrant was issued for Gray's arrest.
• On February 1, Gray was arrested on the warrant.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Gray is scheduled to be arraigned on the 2nd degree Theft charge next week, where a judge will determine if he should be released on bail pending trial.