City issues statement on arrest of Truth and Reconciliation Commission member
On Thursday, Nov. 4, 2021, shortly after the conclusion of the Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission meeting, an Iowa City Police officer noticed Commission chair Mohamed Traore in the lobby of City Hall, 410 E. Washington St. At that time, the officer knew Traore to have an active warrant for his arrest related to a 2019 second offense operating while intoxicated charge. Through the warrant, the court authorized and directed any law enforcement officer to take Traore into custody.
After speaking with Traore and confirming the validity of the warrant, Traore was taken to the Johnson County Jail.
While the officers acted in accordance with the law, the City acknowledges this situation could have been addressed in a more private manner removed from the context of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission meeting.
"While I believe our officers were acting with the best intentions, I am keenly aware of the message the timing of this arrest sends to our community," said Iowa City Police Chief Dustin Liston. "We support the mission of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and will continue to work to build trust with members of the community."
