DUBUQUE, IA (April 1, 2026) — A 34-year-old Dubuque man faces a slew of felony and misdemeanor charges following an incident early Wednesday morning that allegedly involved a weapon, a controlled substance, and an assault on a protected occupational worker.

Joseph Anthony Ruff was arrested at 8:52 a.m. on April 1, 2026, at a residence located at 524 Kaufmann Ave. He was taken into custody by law enforcement officers, including C.M. Salmonson, on a five-count complaint.

According to arrest records, Ruff faces one felony charge and four misdemeanor charges stemming from the incident. The charges include:

· Assault on Persons in Certain Occupations (Class D Felony): This charge suggests that during the incident, Ruff allegedly assaulted an individual who is protected under Iowa’s enhanced penalty statutes, such as a peace officer, first responder, or healthcare worker.
· Domestic Assault/Display or Weapon (Misdemeanor): Ruff is accused of displaying a weapon in the course of a domestic altercation.
· Harassment 1st Degree (Misdemeanor): This charge typically involves threats of violence intended to frighten or intimidate the victim.
· Drug Possession of Controlled Substance (Misdemeanor): Authorities allege Ruff was in possession of an illegal controlled substance at the time of the incident.
· Interference with Official Acts – No Injury/Damage (Misdemeanor): This charge indicates that Ruff is accused of obstructing or resisting law enforcement officers during their response to the scene.

The incident took place at a residence on the 500 block of Kaufmann Avenue. Details regarding the nature of the weapon displayed or the specific controlled substance involved have not yet been released by authorities.

Ruff was booked into the Dubuque County Jail. As of Wednesday afternoon, no further details about the incident or an initial court appearance were immediately available.

This article is based on official arrest records. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.