Des Moines County, Iowa — A Burlington man is facing multiple charges following a reported assault involving a machete on Thursday, June 19, 2025.
According to the Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a report of an assault at approximately 11:55 a.m. The victim reported that while at 12187 Des Moines County Highway 99, he was attacked by Darren Lee Miller, 48, of Burlington. The victim stated that Miller swung a machete and struck him in the forehead, causing a laceration. As the victim attempted to leave the scene, Miller allegedly struck the windshield of the victim’s vehicle, shattering it.
Deputies later obtained and executed a search warrant for the residence at approximately 2:42 p.m. During the search, law enforcement located the machete believed to have been used in the assault. Miller was found at the property and taken into custody without incident.
Miller was transported to the Des Moines County Correctional Center. He faces charges of Willful Injury Causing Bodily Injury, Assault While Displaying a Dangerous Weapon, and Criminal Mischief 4th Degree.
Authorities emphasize that a criminal charge is merely an accusation, and Miller is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident.