DES MOINES – A Nevada, Iowa man made his initial appearance before a United States Magistrate Judge Thursday for alleged threats against a current student and the upcoming Iowa State University graduation. According to allegations in the criminal complaint, between January and April 2025, 28-year-old Tanner Dean Bandy engaged in a pattern of threatening conduct against a former romantic partner through text messages and voicemails. Two days prior to his arrest, Bandy left a voicemail message discussing his intention to conduct a mass shooting at an Iowa State University commencement ceremony. Law enforcement searched Bandy’s residence and vehicle and located two firearms and ammunition. Bandy will remain detained in federal custody pending further proceedings.

INDIANOLA – The Indianola Police Department has charged a woman with murder for the death of an infant. Following a joint investigation with the department, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Warren County Attorney’s Office, 51-year-old Melissa Hancock of Indianola has been accused of first-degree murder in connection with the October 12th, 2024, death of a four-month-old who was in her care. The investigation and medical examinations revealed both “new and healing” injuries consistent with a “pattern” of child abuse caused by Hancock.

IOWA – The Iowa DNR is looking into multiple spills into waterways across the state this week. Iowa Capital Dispatch reports several hundred gallons of red dye were found in Prairie Creek and untreated wastewater flowed into Saylor Creek. A 330 gallon tote of red dye was punctured while on a truck in Maquoketa, according to the DNR. A broken main caused a spill of untreated water in Ankeny.