CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — A Grimes man involved in a tense 11-hour standoff with Cedar Rapids police in February has pleaded guilty to three counts of attempted murder of a police officer.
Christopher Kern, 49, entered the plea in Linn County court on Friday, stemming from the events of February 19, when he barricaded himself inside an apartment after allegedly stealing his own dog from the Animal Rescue League in Des Moines.
During the standoff, authorities say Kern fired at officers on three separate occasions, including shooting through a wall at one point. The standoff concluded after hours of negotiations and tactical intervention.
Kern was already facing 17 charges, and on March 25, he was additionally charged with assaulting a police officer, attempting to escape, and interfering with official acts after trying to flee custody during a dental appointment.
Police say Glen Laxamana, 45, of Cedar Rapids, is also facing charges of accessory after the fact and interference with official acts. Kern was allegedly hiding in Laxamana’s apartment, where the standoff occurred. Laxamana initially denied Kern’s presence but later evidence proved otherwise. His arraignment is scheduled for Monday morning.
Kern’s sentencing is set for April 11.
