Waterloo Police Department

Each year on June 7th, we pause to honor Waterloo Police Department Patrolman Vinton Jerry Margretz, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Patrolman Margretz was killed on June 7th, 1925, while responding to a call. He sustained fatal injuries in a motorcycle crash on Reber Avenue and passed away shortly after at Presbyterian Hospital.

A U.S. Marine Corps veteran of World War I, Patrolman Margretz served the Waterloo community with dedication during two separate periods totaling about two years. He was survived by his wife.

Today, we continue to carry the torch for those who gave everything. Patrolman Margretz’s service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Today, Chief Robert Duncan had the honor of promoting two outstanding leaders within our organization. Sergeant Jordan Ehlers has been promoted to Lieutenant, and Detective Andrew Tindall has been promoted to Sergeant.

A unique connection between these two: they were hired on the same day in February 2016 — and, over ten years later, promoted on the same day in 2026. Throughout their careers, both have made a tremendous impact on crime reduction and the safety of our community.

Lieutenant Ehlers most recently served as the supervisor of the Violent Crime Apprehension Team (VCAT), where he led efforts to reduce gun violence in our community. Under his leadership, VCAT has achieved significant success. He has also played key roles with the K9 Unit and the Tactical Team. Lieutenant Ehlers will now serve as the Late Swing Shift Watch Commander.

Sergeant Tindall most recently served as a detective with the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Task Force, where he worked numerous major narcotics cases at both the state and federal levels.

He previously served with VCAT and is a member of the Tactical Unit. In addition, Sgt. Tindall is a longtime leader in the Iowa National Guard and has proudly served our country on multiple deployments. Sgt. Tindall will now serve as one of the leaders on Third Shift Patrol.

Please join us in congratulating Lieutenant Ehlers and Sergeant Tindall as they take the next steps in their careers. Well deserved!!!

Waterloo Police Respond to Early Morning Shooting

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 31, 2026

On Sunday, May 31, 2026, at approximately 3:38 AM, Waterloo Police Officers and Waterloo Fire and Rescue personnel were dispatched to 3605 Canterbury Court for a report of a shooting.

Upon arrival, officers located an 18-year-old male who had sustained gunshot injuries. The victim was transported to a local hospital and is being treated for serious injuries.

This appears to be an isolated incident, and there is no active threat to the community. The investigation is ongoing, and no further information will be released at this time.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact:
• Waterloo Police Department Detective Division at 319-291-4340 (Option 3)
• Cedar Valley Crime Stoppers at 855-300-TIPS

Contact:
Captain Gus Farmer
Waterloo Police Department
Public Information Office

Valley Lutheran School Administrator Arrested for Sexual Exploitation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 29th, 2026

On Thursday, May 28th, 2026, the Waterloo Police Department received a report regarding an alleged inappropriate relationship between a Valley Lutheran School administrator and a juvenile female student. The suspect, identified as 40‑year‑old Lucas Tanney of Waterloo, was found to be serving at Valley Lutheran School as a principal and track coach for the victim.

Through the investigation, detectives determined unlawful sexual conduct had occurred at Tanney’s residence. On May 29th, 2026, Tanney was taken into custody without incident. He has been booked into the Black Hawk County Jail on a charge of Sexual Exploitation by a School Employee, a Class D Felony.

The Waterloo Police Department reminds the public that a criminal charge is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

No further details will be released at this time as the investigation remains ongoing.

Contact:

Captain Gus Farmer
Waterloo Police Department
Public Information Office

This Saturday, May 23rd from 12pm-3pm will be the 44th Annual 4th Street Cruise! All intersections related to the route will be closed no later than 11:30am. There will be no parking along the cruise route (beginning the evening of the 22nd). Waterloo Police Officers will be coordinating with the 4th Street Cruise committee members to ensure a fun and safe event.

The Waterloo Police Department extends our sincere gratitude to Lieutenant Corbin Payne for almost 30 years of dedicated service to the City of Waterloo. Throughout his career, Lieutenant Payne held numerous leadership roles across multiple divisions, leaving a lasting impact on each.
Please join us in wishing him all the best in his well deserved retirement!

Today, the Waterloo Police Department hosted the annual Black Hawk County Peace Officers’ Memorial Service at Veterans’ Memorial Hall in downtown Waterloo. Held each year during National Police Week, this ceremony honors and remembers the law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

We paid tribute to 14 fallen officers from multiple agencies across Black Hawk County. Their dedication, courage, and service will never be forgotten.

The service was attended by the families of our fallen heroes, community members, city leaders, active law enforcement, and retired officers. Their presence is a powerful reminder of the respect and gratitude our community holds for those who serve.

Tonight, downtown Waterloo will be illuminated in blue and white in recognition of the 38th Annual Candlelight Vigil and National Police Week. May we continue to honor and remember those who gave everything to protect us.

Join us Friday, May 15th from 6:00 AM to NOON for Cop on a Rooftop at the Cedar Falls Dunkin’ (6004 University Avenue)!
We’re proud to support Special Olympics Iowa, and we love seeing our communities come together for this great cause. Stop by, grab a coffee, say hello, and help make a difference!

Participating agencies include the Waterloo Police Department, Waterloo Police Protective Association, Waterloo Police Foundation, Cedar Falls Public Safety, and the Black Hawk County Sheriff's Office - Waterloo, Iowa. We look forward to seeing you there!