Dubuque, IA – August 30, 2025 – Two Dubuque residents, Christopher Michael Merz, 25, and Haley Mae Merz, 30, were arrested early Saturday morning on felony charges of neglect or abandonment of a dependent person, according to Dubuque Police Department records. The arrests, which occurred just minutes apart in the city’s central area, highlight ongoing concerns about child welfare in the community.

The first arrest took place at approximately 4:21 a.m. at 1900 Central Ave., where Christopher Michael Merz was taken into custody by Officer A.J. Weitz on the charge of neglect or abandonment of a dependent person, a class “C” felony under Iowa Code § 726.3. The incident was assigned arrest report number AR 2025004262. Just two minutes later, at 4:23 a.m., Haley Mae Merz was arrested nearby at the intersection of 2 E 19th St. and Central Ave. by Officer J. Kimball on the same felony charge. Specific details regarding the dependent person involved, such as their age or condition, have not been publicly disclosed, as investigations into child-related cases often prioritize privacy to protect victims.

Under Iowa law, neglect or abandonment of a dependent person occurs when a parent, guardian, or custodian knowingly or recklessly exposes a child or other dependent—defined as someone unable to care for themselves due to age, mental, or physical disability—to a hazard or danger they cannot reasonably protect against, or deserts them under circumstances likely to cause harm. This offense carries severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and fines ranging from $1,370 to $13,660 for a class “C” felony conviction. The charge is commonly applied in cases involving children left in unsafe conditions, such as exposure to environmental hazards, lack of supervision, or other risks to physical, mental, or emotional well-being.

Authorities have not released additional information about the circumstances leading to the arrests, including whether the incidents were connected or involved the same dependent. However, the proximity of the locations and timing suggests a possible link, potentially related to a shared household or incident. Both individuals were booked into the Dubuque County Jail, and formal charges are expected to be filed in Dubuque County District Court in the coming days. As of Saturday afternoon, both had been released on bond, and court appearances are pending.

Both Merz individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.