The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan

The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan

The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan

Local man charged with stealing alcohol, trying to return it

A North Liberty man was charged Tuesday with third-degree theft and a second offense consumption/intoxication.

Officers arrived at Hy-Vee, 1201 N. Dodge St., after receiving reports of a male who had allegedly shoplifted alcohol earlier in the day. When police arrived, Nathaniel Matiyabo was trying to return the stolen alcohol, according to police reports.

The documents said Matiyabo tried to walk away from the store, and his brother fled the scene in a car. Matiyabo allegedly smelled of ingested alcohol, had slurred speech, and blood-shot, watery eyes.

Complaints said Matiyabo admitted to drinking earlier in the day and refused a preliminary breath test before police arrested him.

When offered a breath test again, Matiyabo blew .046.

The complaint alleges that Matiyabo and his brother stole a bottle of Don Perigon champagne, valued at $181.94, earlier in the day. Matiyabo has six previous theft charges.

— by Sam Lane

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