Iowa City man charged with assaulting convenience store worker

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A 28-year-old Iowa City man has been arrested and charged with assault causing bodily injury after allegedly lying in wait and attacking a convenience store employee on March 29th. According to police, Zachary Prestridge and an accomplice hid in the dumpster enclosure at a Casey's store and assaulted the victim when he went outside, leaving him with injuries to his head and shoulder.

Why it matters

Assaults on retail and service workers have become an increasing concern in Iowa City and across the country, with employees often facing threats and violence from customers or others. This incident highlights the need for improved safety measures and de-escalation training for convenience store staff.

The details

Police say Prestridge and an unidentified accomplice waited in the dumpster enclosure at the Casey's store on Broadway Street, then attacked the victim when he went outside to take out the trash. Prestridge allegedly hit the victim repeatedly and shoved him into a brick wall before fleeing the scene. The victim suffered pain and numbness in his head and shoulder as a result of the assault.

• The incident occurred on the evening of March 29th.
• Prestridge was arrested and charged on April 7th.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Prestridge is facing a serious misdemeanor charge of assault causing bodily injury, which carries a potential jail sentence of up to one year if convicted. A no-contact order between Prestridge and the victim has also been requested.