Sheriff: Linn County inmate attacks deputies after dentist visit

A Grimes man, Christopher Kern, is facing additional charges after attempting to escape custody while being transported from the Linn County Jail to a dental appointment. This incident follows an earlier arrest on February 20, which stemmed from a prolonged standoff with police over a stolen dog. The Linn County Sheriff's Office reported that the 49-year-old attacked two deputies during the transfer, leading to a struggle.

Kern was initially apprehended for serious offenses, including multiple counts of attempted murder of a peace officer and possession of firearms by a felon. His troubles began when he was accused of stealing a wounded dog named Dionysus from an animal shelter after the dog had been surrendered to the facility following a shots-fired incident. Investigators in Des Moines sought Kern, learning he might be in Cedar Rapids, where he was ultimately found and arrested after barricading himself in an apartment.

After the standoff, Kern was held at the Linn County Jail on a $100,000 cash-only bail. In March, he indicated his intent to plead guilty, with a hearing scheduled for early April. However, his situation escalated dramatically during a dental appointment in Cedar Rapids on Tuesday.

While being escorted out of the dental office, Kern attacked one of the sheriff’s deputies, knocking him down, which led to a violent struggle involving both deputies. The situation prompted the assistance of a bystander and additional law enforcement personnel from nearby police departments.

As a result of this incident, Kern now faces new charges, including assault on persons in certain occupations with injury, interference with official acts with injury, and attempted escape. He has been returned to jail, where he remains in custody awaiting further legal proceedings.