Iowa City police contend that an area local man stole more than $1,200 of property from a deceased woman’s home.

Michael James Shrock, 33, 4487 490th St., was charged July 16 with second-degree theft, third-degree burglary, and tampering with a witness.

According to complaints, Shrock entered the alleged victim’s deceased mother’s residence and stole a computer, a vacuum cleaner, jewelry, and tools — among other items.

A witness confirmed Shrock’s unlawful entry into the residence to law enforcement, the complaint said.

Officers said some of the property was located at an apartment on Finkbine Lane, but the leaseholder stated the Shrock had dropped it off and left.

During the burglary investigation, Shrock allegedly contacted a witness, pulled her hair, and told her, "she knew exactly what to say," adding that she and her sister "would figure it out together."

Reports said the woman was scared Shrock would physically harm her, so she provided officer false information to protect him.

— by Brian Albert