(Council Bluffs, Iowa) – A man wearing a neon green inmate jumpsuit was arrested on October 24th in Council Bluffs, after he his behavior became “erratic and disruptive,” according to Council Bluffs Police. Authorities say officers with the Council Bluffs PD were dispatched at around 4:25 p.m. on Oct. 24th, to the Casey’s General Store at 3501 West Broadway, to initially assist another law enforcement agency. Upon arrival, officers observed a male individual, later identified as Christopher Lard walking on the north side of the business. Officers noted Lard appeared disoriented and was talking to himself.

Upon further investigation, it was learned that Lard had been dropped off by employees with the Dodge County Nebraska Sheriff’s Office as part of a “courtesy ride” to Council Bluffs. Immediately upon release, Lard reportedly began wandering the property, yelling incoherently, and throwing small figurines at customers. Witnesses also reported Lard entering a parked vehicle and approaching patrons in a concerning manner.

Due to his erratic and disruptive conduct CBPD officers placed Lard under arrest for Disorderly Conduct in a Place of Business. Lard was transported by the CBPD to the Pottawattamie County Jail for processing. After processing, he was later evaluated by medical professionals and transferred to a facility—outside law enforcement custody—for care and services. The CBPD has not been able to locate any family members, friends, acquaintances, or social service providers who have any relationship with Mr. Lard in Council Bluffs or Pottawattamie County.

Witnesses at the scene expressed relief and thanked officers for their response, stating that Lard’s behavior had caused distress among customers. The CBPD would like to thank the employees and patrons of Casey’s for their cooperation during the incident.

The CBPD reminds the public of the importance of timely and accurate notification of authorities if the public witness events similar to this. The CBPD is working closely with the Council Bluffs City Attorney’s Office and Pottawattamie County Attorney’s office to pursue every appropriate remedy to address any instances of individuals being improperly dropped off in Council Bluffs.