IOWA CITY, Iowa — The Iowa City Police Department (ICPD) arrested Michael Amerson, 32, Tuesday in connection with a 2025 credit card theft investigation.
Amerson faces charges of unauthorized use of a credit card under $1,500 and fourth-degree theft, a serious misdemeanor under Iowa law. Police say the stolen credit card was used at Hawkeye Liquor on 108 E. College St.
According to court documents, the incident occurred on March 21, 2025, when officers were notified of three suspicious transactions. The card had gone missing overnight and was not authorized for use. Witnesses identified Amerson as the person who used the card, and video surveillance confirmed his identity. The total value of stolen items was $525.13.
Amerson was released on recognizance, agreeing to appear in court for all future proceedings and to avoid further criminal activity. Additional charges are expected, according to ICPD.
Under Iowa law, fourth-degree theft carries a fine of $430–$2,560 and up to one year in jail, while unauthorized use of a credit card under $1,500 is an aggravated misdemeanor punishable by up to two years in prison and fines of $855–$8,540.
ICPD noted that credit card and ATM fraud decreased by 14% from 2023 to 2024, with 108 cases reported in 2024 compared to 126 in 2023. The department thanked the public for helping identify Amerson after a Feb. 2 request for assistance in the investigation.
