Matthew Lee Moore, 42, of Marshalltown, is facing numerous criminal charges after being linked to several burglaries in Marshalltown, including the January 7 burglary of VFW Post 839. The charges filed against Moore include two counts of third-degree burglary, one count of second-degree theft, and multiple other related charges, as detailed in a press release from the Marshalltown Police Department (MPD).
Moore, who has a criminal history and was previously arrested in connection with burglaries at the American Legion buildings in Gladbrook and Garwin and the Tama Eagles Club, now faces additional charges stemming from a string of alleged incidents across Marshalltown. The charges against him include multiple counts of attempted burglary, criminal mischief, and drug-related offenses.
The investigation into Moore’s criminal activities began in November 2024 when the MPD responded to several alarm calls at local businesses, including a strip mall near Walmart and East Side Liquor. Surveillance footage from these incidents led investigators to link the burglaries to Moore, who was reportedly driving the same suspect vehicle in multiple cases. In one incident, the suspect failed to gain entry to East Side Liquor, while another attempt was made at The Lounge on Main on November 29.
The most significant of Moore’s alleged crimes was the burglary at VFW Post 839 on January 7, 2025. The burglary involved the theft of a safe containing approximately $1,000 in cash, $450 in checks, keys, and critical documents, including the deed to the building. This burglary prompted a focused investigation, which led to the execution of search warrants on January 16, 2025, in Marshalltown, where Moore was arrested on outstanding burglary warrants.
Moore is currently being held at the Tama County Jail, facing charges in connection with these incidents, which include burglaries, drug possession, and criminal mischief. The MPD’s investigation remains ongoing, with more arrests anticipated.
Law enforcement has been working closely with multiple agencies, including the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, Tama County Sheriff’s Office, and several others, to resolve these cases. Tips from the public are being encouraged to help with the ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the MPD at 641-754-5725, or submit anonymous tips through Marshall County Crime Stoppers.
As previously reported, Moore was convicted in 2020 for his involvement in at least nine burglaries across the state, leading to a prison sentence of up to 15 years.
