Des Moines Woman Charged in Mother's Death 2024-10-03

A Des Moines woman, G., has been arrested and charged with the 2023 death of her 70-year-old mother, N. Glaza. G., 42, is charged with second-degree murder and animal neglect. Detectives say officers and medical personnel were sent to a home on Urbandale Avenue on June 14, 2023, for a report of a cardiac arrest. They found N. Glaza dead outside the home, appearing emaciated. Officials say Glaza was a dependent adult who relied on G. for assistance, but G. neglected her needs, as the living conditions were 'unfit' and lacked running water since 2021. A Cocker Spaniel found in the home was also in 'advanced neglected condition' and had to be euthanized. Police say G. began avoiding detectives, but she eventually walked into the Des Moines Police Department on Thursday.

Assault

Union Calls for Improved Safety, Bargaining Rights for Iowa Correctional Officers 2024-10-03

Union officials, including T. Copley of AFSCME Council 61, called on the state to provide more funding and staffing, as well as restore bargaining rights to correctional officers in Iowa. Copley said three correctional officers have been attacked at the Iowa State Penitentiary since September 23, and there have been more than 150 assaults on correctional officers across the state's prison system so far in 2024. Union officials argue that restoring collective bargaining rights would improve safety and working conditions for these officers. However, state officials, including Sen. J. Schultz, believe correctional officers work in a 'controlled environment' and should not be granted the same bargaining rights as other public safety employees.

Community

Polk County Sheriff's Office Supports Breast Cancer Awareness 2024-10-03

The Polk County Sheriff's Office is participating in the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Project during the month of October. The Community Relations Division is selling pink patches, lapel pins, and vehicle magnets, with all proceeds being donated to the John Stoddard Cancer Center in Des Moines. The items can be purchased by contacting the Community Relations Division, with cash or credit card payments accepted.