Dubuque, Iowa – December 24, 2025

Two Racine, Wisconsin residents face serious charges after a domestic dispute escalated into a shooting early Christmas Eve morning.

Arthur D. Blakeley, 57, and Cleshawn C. Hopes, 54, were arrested following the incident at a residence in the 800 block of West Fifth Street.

Police responded around 1:15 a.m. to reports of gunfire, finding 36-year-old Promethius Brown with a chest wound. He was rushed to MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center and remains stable in ICU.

Court records reveal the shooting stemmed from allegations that Brown assaulted Hopes’ daughter, who lives at the home. Brown’s polyamorous relationship involved others at the address.

A grandson alerted Hopes, prompting her and Blakeley to drive from Racine armed with a pistol and pipe.

Blakeley admitted bringing the weapons and claimed a struggle led to the shot—initially saying he fired, later alleging accidental discharge by Brown. He had facial injuries.

Hopes told officers she fired during the altercation. A witness reported Hopes pointing the gun afterward and using pepper spray.

Blakeley faces willful injury causing serious injury and going armed with intent.

Hopes is charged with willful injury causing serious injury, going armed with intent, and marijuana possession.

Both remain in custody; investigation continues.

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