Cedar Rapids Man Charged After Alleged Knife Assault at Coralville Job Site
Authorities in Johnson County arrested a Cedar Rapids resident last month following a violent altercation at a construction site in Coralville. Pedro Celestino Barboza Moreno, 49, faces felony charges including Going Armed with Intent and Willful Injury Causing Bodily Injury after allegedly attacking a co-worker with a utility knife.
Deep Search: Incident Details
The incident occurred on the morning of January 7, 2026, at a construction site in Coralville. Officers were dispatched to the scene around 10:45 a.m. following reports of a stabbing. According to the criminal complaint filed by the Coralville Police Department, Barboza Moreno allegedly produced a utility knife and intentionally swung it at the victim’s face.
Police reports indicate the victim suffered a significant laceration to the bottom lip that required sutures. Investigators allege that Barboza Moreno also slashed at the victim’s torso, cutting through their coat and reaching the rib area. The affidavit states that the suspect admitted to officers that his actions were intentional and that he was aware he was striking the victim’s face. Following the arrest, a no-contact order was requested to protect the injured party.
Background Information
Under Iowa law, the charge of “Going Armed with Intent” is a Class D felony, which involves moving a dangerous weapon to a location with the specific intent to use it against another person. “Willful Injury Causing Bodily Injury” is also a serious felony charge that requires proof the defendant intended to cause serious injury and successfully caused bodily harm.
If convicted on both counts, Barboza Moreno could face a maximum prison sentence of up to 15 years. The construction sector in Johnson County has seen increased activity recently, bringing larger crews to various sites, where workplace safety disputes occasionally escalate, though incidents involving weapons of this nature are statistically rare.
Objections and Legal Perspective
While the police report cites an alleged confession, legal experts caution that initial arrest records represent only one side of the narrative. In criminal proceedings, statements made to law enforcement can be challenged on various grounds, including whether the defendant fully understood their rights or if there were communication barriers present during the interrogation.
Furthermore, the presumption of innocence remains a cornerstone of the judicial process. Defense counsel may argue for alternative interpretations of the altercation, such as self-defense or mutual combat, which could significantly alter the legal outcome. As of this report, formal pleas have not yet been fully adjudicated in court.
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