Overview

• Video shared on social media on August 10 showed a midday fight that broke out on August 2 among boaters at Lake Winterset’s sandbar, leaving at least two participants unconscious as families watched.
• Sheriff Grady Judd announced on August 12 that seven adult men and a 17-year-old have been arrested on charges of rioting, affray, trespassing and disorderly conduct, including an additional count related to a minor.
• Judd displayed the footage at a press conference and warned that future offenders will face swift jail time under a tougher enforcement regime.
• Residents report that recurring trespassing, loud parties and indecent behavior at the sandbar have degraded neighborhood quality of life, with some homeowners considering leaving.
• In response, the sheriff’s office will boost Marine Patrol presence and explore noise restrictions to enforce a boater access ordinance that is awaiting final state approval.