From the KCRG-TV9 Newsroom:
After three days of testimony, the case of Duval Walker–accused of killing a man at a Marion bar last St. Patrick’s Day–is now in the hands of a Linn County jury. Prosecutors and defense attorneys spent all afternoon yesterday arguing whether Duval Walker was acting in self defense when he shot and killed 32-year-old Cameron Barnes after the two got into a fist fight last St. Patrick’s Day. The prosecution argued that Walker knew what he was doing when he entered the bar, especially since he was the one to throw the first punch. But the defense says investigators failed to look into any other leads besides Walker. Guilty verdicts could mean Walker will spend a lifetime behind bars.
A bill that would dissolve citizen review boards across Iowa has passed through the senate and is now making its way through the house. Citizen Review Boards look into complaints of police misconduct. Cedar Rapids created its in 2021 following the protests and rallies for the murder of George Floyd. Supporters say taking the boards away would ignore diverse voices in the community. The bill now goes to the full house floor for debate. If it becomes law, it would take effect on July 1.
A former Cedar Rapids woman has been sentenced to 6 months in federal prison for COVID relief loan fraud. 24-year-old Diamond Davies helped people secure more than 30 false loans worth about $600,000. During a two-month period in 2021, Davies helped apply for roughly 50 paycheck protection program loans, totaling about $1 million. About 30 were successful. She was ordered to pay more than $600,000 in restitution to the Small Business Administration.
Cedar Rapids police officers are warning people to be proactive against scammers. It comes after they say one victim lost $50,000 and another lost more than $34,000. Police officers say legitimate entities won’t ask you to use cryptocurrency or to leave your home to take money out of the bank. Police say if you think you’ve been a victim of a scam, call your bank and then call police.
