An Ottumwa man is facing multiple felony and misdemeanor charges after allegedly forcing his way into a woman’s apartment, physically assaulting her, and threatening her with a knife despite an active restraining order.
Peter Serrer, 52, of Ottumwa has been charged with Burglary in the First Degree, a Class B Felony, Theft in the Second Degree, a Class D Felony, Assault Committed by a Person Against Whom a Protective Order is Issued, a Class D Felony, Domestic Abuse Assault — Display or Use of a Weapon, First Offense, an aggravated misdemeanor, Assault — Contact Insulting or Offensive, a simple misdemeanor, and Violation of a No Contact/Protective Order, a simple misdemeanor. The alleged incident occurred at approximately 7:00 a.m. on June 3rd in Ottumwa, though Serrer was not arrested on the resulting warrants until August 11th.
According to court documents, the victim had an active restraining order against Serrer at the time of the incident. When she went to lock her door, Serrer allegedly forced his way into the residence. As he forced his way in, the victim fell backward and landed on a piece of furniture. Once inside, Serrer allegedly struck the victim several times in the face with his hands — though she was unsure whether she was also struck with a plastic item he was carrying.
A neighbor came to help the victim, allowing her to get away from Serrer. Serrer then went into the kitchen, grabbed a large knife, and began walking toward the victim in a threatening manner before dropping the knife when a second neighbor arrived to help. Court documents note the victim and Serrer had been in a relationship for approximately two years.
Serrer’s initial appearance is scheduled for August 21st. He is currently being held on no bond.
