The Lyon County Courthouse in Rock Rapids remains closed following a burglary that occurred during the late hours of December 16th into the early morning hours of December 17th.
According to the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office, suspects unlawfully entered the courthouse and moved throughout the building, causing significant damage. Deputies were alerted Wednesday morning after a county employee arrived and discovered signs of the break-in.
Investigators, along with the Iowa State Patrol, searched the building and spent much of the day processing the scene. With assistance from the Lyon County IT Department, surveillance video was reviewed showing the suspects inside the courthouse.
Authorities are now requesting arrest warrants for multiple charges, including third-degree burglary, first-degree criminal mischief, conspiracy, and reckless use of fire or explosives. Suspect names are being withheld until warrants are officially issued.
No one was inside the courthouse at the time, and no injuries were reported. The building will remain closed at least through the end of the week as cleanup continues.
Due to the closure, the 3rd Judicial District reports that electronic court filings for Lyon County are being handled by the Osceola County Clerk of Court’s Office. Anyone with a scheduled court appearance at the Lyon County Courthouse is asked to contact the Osceola County Clerk of Court.
