Man Attempts Escape After Dental Appointment, Faces New Charges

Key Takeaways:

• Christopher Kern attempted to escape from deputies after a dental appointment.
• Kern faces new charges, including assault and attempted escape.
• The incident adds to Kern’s existing legal troubles following a February standoff.
• Kern plans to plead guilty in the ongoing case related to the earlier standoff.

Attempted Escape Leads to Confrontation

A routine dental appointment turned into a chaotic scene when Christopher Kern, a 49-year-old inmate from Linn County Jail, allegedly attempted to flee while in the custody of two sheriff’s deputies. According to a report published on KCRG’s website, the incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday in northeast Cedar Rapids as Kern and another inmate were leaving the appointment.

While exiting the office, Kern reportedly assaulted one of the deputies, knocking him to the ground. A struggle ensued involving both deputies and a bystander who attempted to intervene. Backup was quickly called, prompting a response from additional deputies as well as officers from Hiawatha and Cedar Rapids police departments.

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Kern now faces multiple charges stemming from this incident, including “assault on persons in certain occupations with injury,” “interference with official acts with injury,” and “attempted escape.”

Legal Troubles Mount for Kern

This latest incident adds to an already extensive list of legal issues for Kern, who has been in custody since February 20. Court documents cited by KCRG detail a prior standoff at the Chelsea Apartments on Valor Way southwest, where Kern kept Cedar Rapids police officers at bay for nearly 11 hours.

The confrontation began on February 19, shortly after 7 p.m., when officers attempted to locate Kern. During their efforts, he reportedly fired shots at the officers. This event followed Kern’s escape from Des Moines, where authorities say he stole his dog from the Animal Rescue League.

Glen Laxamana, whose apartment Kern was staying in during the standoff, faces charges of interfering in the case. Earlier this month, court filings revealed that Kern intends to plead guilty in connection with the February incident.

A Pattern of Resistance

Kern’s actions during the dental appointment align with a pattern of resistance against law enforcement, as outlined in the KCRG article. His decision to physically assault a deputy underscores what officials describe as a persistent disregard for authority.

Authorities have not disclosed further details about the injuries sustained during the altercation but confirmed that Kern remains in custody. The deputies involved are recovering from the incident.

Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation

The involvement of multiple law enforcement agencies highlights the seriousness of the situation and its potential impact on public safety. Residents in the area expressed concern over the disruption caused by the struggle, with some noting the unsettling nature of witnessing such an event unfold in what is typically a quiet neighborhood.

As the investigation continues, authorities are likely to examine the circumstances surrounding Kern’s transfer to the dental appointment, particularly whether additional measures could have prevented the attempted escape.

For now, Kern’s legal challenges continue to grow, with court proceedings expected to address both the recent charges and his planned guilty plea in the February standoff.

This case serves as a reminder of the complexities faced by law enforcement when managing individuals with a history of resisting arrest or engaging in confrontational behavior.