A Dubuque teenager has received a sentence of 10 years in prison stemming from a December 2024 confrontation with Dubuque police. 17 year old Lorenzo K. Cruz, was given the sentence in Iowa District Court of Dubuque County after pleading guilty to multiple charges including assault on a peace officer while displaying a dangerous weapon and interference with official acts. The confrontation with police officers happened on Christmas Eve near the intersection of University Avenue and Alpine Street after officers responded to a report that Cruz had threatened another person and might be in possession of a gun. The officers were told that there were seven warrants out for Cruz’s arrest and that he was known to carry weapons.
One officer tried to tase him but was unsuccessful. That’s when they say the then 16-year-old ran toward two officers with the knife. Two officers shot back, hitting the teen in his arm and shoulder. Cruz also was sentenced after pleading guilty to the unrelated charges of serious injury by vehicle while intoxicated and third-degree harassment.
