Self-Described Hell's Angel Accused of Extortion in Iowa City

58-year-old Connecticut man charged with threatening to kill victim's family if not paid $3,000

Mar. 1, 2026 at 11:47pm

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A 58-year-old man from New Haven, Connecticut named Wayne Miller is accused of trying to extort $3,000 from an Iowa City resident by threatening to kill the victim's spouse and children. Miller allegedly claimed to be a member of the Hell's Angels motorcycle gang when making the threats.

Why it matters

Extortion and threats of violence are serious crimes that can have a significant impact on victims and the broader community. This case highlights the potential dangers posed by individuals claiming affiliation with notorious criminal organizations like the Hell's Angels.

The details

According to police, the incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon near the intersection of Waterfront Drive and Southgate Avenue in Iowa City. Miller allegedly approached the victim, got in their face, and said he would kill the victim's spouse and children if he wasn't paid $3,000. Miller also allegedly shoved a paramedic who arrived on the scene and pushed his finger into the paramedic's chest.

  • The incident occurred just before 4:45 PM on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
  • Miller was booked into the Johnson County Jail just after 4:45 PM on Thursday, February 20, 2026.

The players

Wayne Miller

A 58-year-old man from New Haven, Connecticut who is accused of trying to extort money from an Iowa City resident while claiming to be a member of the Hell's Angels motorcycle gang.

The Victim

An Iowa City resident who was allegedly threatened by Wayne Miller.

The Paramedic

A paramedic who responded to the scene and was allegedly shoved and had their chest pushed by Wayne Miller.

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What they’re saying

“We must take all threats of violence and extortion seriously to protect our community.”

— Chief Jill Lohman, Iowa City Police Chief

What’s next

Miller is currently being held in the Johnson County Jail. He is facing charges of 1st Degree Harassment and Assault on Persons in Certain Occupations, which could result in up to 4 years in prison if convicted.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of vigilance against individuals who claim affiliation with notorious criminal organizations and use threats of violence to try to extort money from innocent victims. It serves as a reminder of the need for strong law enforcement and community efforts to address such threats to public safety.