A peaceful demonstration in support of democracy and the First Amendment was disrupted this weekend by a dangerous and alarming incident that has prompted a public safety alert.
Around midday, demonstrators with the Henry County Democrats gathered on the sidewalk were threatened by an individual riding a motorcycle who appeared to deliberately drive toward the crowd in an aggressive manner. Witnesses say the man rode a silver Harley Davidson—likely a Street Glide or Road King model with hard saddlebags and no windshield—onto the sidewalk, revving his engine and posturing as if to run over demonstrators.
Organizers of the event and multiple attendees described the act as intentional and clearly meant to intimidate those peacefully assembled. “This was not a misunderstanding,” one witness said. “It was a deliberate and threatening action that put people’s safety at risk.”
Suspect Description:
- White male, approximately 30 years old
- Dark brown hair, clean-shaven
- Riding a silver Harley Davidson (likely a Street Glide or Road King with hard bags, no windshield)
- No helmet, no sunglasses
- Wearing blue jeans and a black mesh Harley Davidson riding jacket
- Jacket had “Harley Davidson” printed across the back shoulders and front chest
This type of hostile behavior has no place in a civil society. The right to peaceful assembly is foundational to democracy, and any act that threatens or endangers citizens exercising that right must be taken seriously.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident, captured photos or videos, or who recognizes the individual or motorcycle described to come forward.
If you have any information, please contact:
- Mt. Pleasant Police Department at (319) 385-1450
- Henry County Sheriff’s Office at (319) 385-2712
Community members are reminded that ensuring public safety is a shared responsibility. By speaking up, you can help uphold the values of safety, freedom, and mutual respect in our public spaces.