Utah man arrested after incident at New London Casey’s

NEW LONDON — A Utah man was arrested Friday, April 11 following a welfare check at Casey’s General Store in New London, according to the Henry County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded to the request at approximately 8:42 p.m. and were told the individual had been dropped off around 5 p.m. and had spent several hours sitting in the corner, rambling to himself.

The man was identified as Corey Halvorson, 39, of South Ogden, Utah.

After informing Halvorson that the store closes at 10 p.m., the criminal complaint filed with Iowa Courts states he became agitated. Deputy Brent Roth arrived shortly before 9 p.m. and asked Halvorson to leave before the store closed, but he refused, stating he owned the store.

“I asked what about when the store closes and he replied we are staying open all night tonight,” Roth wrote in his report. “The defendant stated the store was given to him by the creator and he did not have to leave. He was advised if would not willingly leave he would be removed.”

After attempts to remove him peacefully were unsuccessful, Halvorson was arrested. He was charged with trespassing (first offense) and interference with official acts, both simple misdemeanors.

A criminal charge is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com