Des Moines Man Charged with Kidnapping, Domestic Abuse, and Firearm Possession 2024-12-16

A Des Moines man, M. Mercado Quintero, 44, is in jail charged with kidnapping, domestic abuse and possessing a firearm as a felon after allegedly assaulting his girlfriend and holding her against her will all weekend. The victim reported being assaulted and held against her will since Friday night, and said she was able to call for help because her alleged attacker had gone to work. She told police she had been hit and kicked repeatedly over the weekend and that her hands were bound with electrical tape and rope. Mercado Quintero is charged with first-degree kidnapping, domestic abuse assault with a weapon, and felon in possession of a firearm. The victim sustained multiple injuries and is now recovering. Evidence, including a handgun, was recovered from the scene, and Mercado Quintero was arrested by Urbandale Police Department officers.

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animal cruelty

Abandoned Bulldog Found Bound in Trash Bag in Des Moines 2024-12-16

A male bulldog in desperate need of help is in caring hands after someone dumped the dog in a taped-up trash bag. The Des Moines Police Department said it was 'requesting the community's assistance' in determining who left behind the 'abandoned and emaciated' canine. Someone brought the ailing animal to a City of Des Moines Animal Services facility on Dec. 10 after they found the bulldog on the side of an Iowa road, tied up in a trash bag with only his head sticking out. The dog had a veterinary exam, where the 'staff found the dog to be emaciated, weighing slightly over 23 pounds.' The police department shared that it believes the dog may have had previous veterinary care because the canine's ears are cropped and hopes that someone will recognize that animal and help the authorities find who abandoned the pet.

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religion

Satanic Holiday Display Denied at Iowa Capitol Due to Concerns Over Harm to Minors 2024-12-16

State officials in Iowa have denied a request by the Satanic Temple of Iowa to hold a holiday display at the Iowa Capitol, citing concerns over obscenity and potential harm to children. The display was set to include satanic holiday carols, a satanic altar, and a Krampus costume contest. The Iowa Department of Administrative Services, which coordinates events at the Capitol, said the display was denied because it contains elements that are 'harmful to minors.' Gov. Kim Reynolds stated that the state government is 'always going to be concerned about the wellbeing of children' and that the Capitol is a place where children and families routinely visit, so the event policy takes into consideration conduct that would be harmful to minors. The Satanic Temple plans to ask the department to reconsider allowing the display.

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