An Iowa City man was charged with assault with a dangerous weapon after he allegedly brandished a knife while asking to bum a cigarette.

Michael Elder, 37, was arrested by Iowa City police after a subject called officers to the neighborhood of 931 N. Dodge St., where Elder lives.

The alleged victim of the assault was reportedly walking with friends when Elder allegedly appeared out of the dark, asking him for a cigarette and holding a knife in his hand.

According to a complaint from Iowa City police, Elder continued to look at the knife and then at the alleged victims in a very threatening manner, placing the alleged victims in fear of their personal safety.

The complaint said the knife reportedly used was located in Elder’s car.

— by Matt Starns