A southeast Iowa man faces multiple charges after allegedly attacking his son and causing numerous injuries.
Matthew Joseph Wenke, 41, of Douds was charged with willful injury – causing bodily injury (Class D felony) and domestic abuse assault with the intent to inflict serious injury – first offense (aggravated misdemeanor).
According to court records, on Wednesday, June 3rd, Wenke’s 19-year-old son came home from school and confronted his father concerning a personal matter. The discussion evolved into an argument. A responding deputy from the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office, who described Wenke as “highly intoxicated,” says Wenke told his son to find another place to live.
Wenke allegedly grabbed a shotgun and walked into the kitchen. The son, worried that his father would harm others or himself, chased down Wenke, tackled him to the floor, and pinned him with the hopes of calming him down, according to court filings.
Authorities say Wenke regained control after a long struggle, got on top of his son, and slammed his head against the floor. When the two stood up, Wenke repeatedly hit his son with a metal broom handle. Officials say Wenke mounted his son again and continually punched him. Court documents allege Wenke then got back up and kicked his son multiple times while wearing steel-toed boots.
According to the sheriff’s office, a family member witnessed the alleged assault. The responding deputy noted the victim’s injuries include abrasions, cuts, and bruising on his arms, side, lower back, face, ear, and head. A large hematoma was also observed on the son’s head, and dried blood was discovered on his ear from an alleged bite from Wenke.
Wenke was released without bond on a promise to appear. He’s been ordered not to have any contact with his son.
Wenke has a preliminary hearing on June 25th.
