The Pella Police Department has released a statement addressing a recent arrest in downtown Pella that generated significant public attention after video footage of the incident circulated online, according to a message from Chief of Police Shane McSheehy.
According to the statement, officers were responding to reports that a suspect had allegedly engaged in an unprovoked assault against an adult female who was walking with her one-year-old child. The victim told officers she did not know the suspect and had never met him prior to the encounter. Given the nature of the allegations, the apparent random selection of the victim, and the suspect’s subsequent attempt to flee from law enforcement, officers considered him to be a continued risk to public safety.
When officers attempted to contact the suspect, he repeatedly ignored lawful commands, fled on foot through multiple areas of the community, and continued to resist efforts to take him into custody. Officers ultimately detained and arrested the suspect after an extended foot pursuit.
The suspect, Michael Christopher Dejoode, was arrested and charged with Harassment in the Third Degree and Interference with Official Acts.
Chief McSheehy said the department is conducting a thorough review of the use of force, as it does with every such incident. Body-worn camera footage and all available evidence are being considered as part of that process. “We recognize that use-of-force incidents generate public interest and scrutiny,” McSheehy said. “These reviews are completed to ensure compliance with department policy, applicable training standards, and Iowa law.”
McSheehy emphasized the department’s commitment to transparency. “The safety of our residents, visitors, and our officers remains our highest priority. We are committed to being transparent, accountable, and professional in our service to the Pella community.”
