The Iowa City police have identified a suspect following an increase in the number of tire slashings in Iowa City and have issued a warrant for his arrest on a second-degree criminal-mischief charge.

According to a release from the city of Iowa City, Alexander Ruben Alvarado was seen on security footage slashing tires with a pocket knife.

After meeting with Alvarado, the release said, he admitted to slashing tires on Nov. 14, 15, and 16. Officers found 42 tires were destroyed during that time on Nevada Avenue, Miami Drive, Arizona Avenue, Hollywood Boulevard, and Union Road.

Currently, Alvarado is in custody with the U.S. Marshals Service on a weapons charge unrelated to this incident, the release said, and he will be brought to the Johnson County Jail once the weapons offense is handled.

Iowa City police issued a release on Nov. 17 asking for the public’s help in finding a suspect after receiving reports of more than 20 tire slashings.

Second-degree criminal mischief is a Class-D felony.

— Kayli Reese