DUBUQUE, Iowa — A 19-year-old Dubuque woman faces two felony charges after authorities say she broke into a residence on the city’s east side early Sunday morning and caused significant property damage.

Arielle Shontelle Knox was arrested at approximately 9:27 a.m. on June 28, 2026, on Deborah Drive and charged with Burglary in the Second Degree (a Class C felony) and Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree involving $1,500 to $10,000 in damages (also a Class D felony).

According to arrest records, Knox is accused of unlawfully entering or remaining in a structure with the intent to commit a felony, theft, or assault — the legal elements of second-degree burglary in Iowa. The criminal mischief charge stems from alleged damage to property valued between $1,500 and $10,000. Both offenses are felonies punishable by prison time upon conviction.

Knox, was booked into the Dubuque County Jail. She posted a $15,000 cash bond and is awaiting further court proceedings. No additional details about the alleged victim, the exact nature of the damage, or any items reportedly taken have been released publicly at this time.

Iowa law treats second-degree burglary as a serious offense, carrying a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a fine as high as $10,000. Criminal mischief in the second degree is punishable by up to five years in prison and a $7,500 fine. Actual sentences depend on criminal history, plea negotiations, and judicial discretion.

As of Sunday afternoon, no further information had been released by the Dubuque Police Department regarding the investigation, possible motives, or whether additional suspects may be involved. Police typically withhold many details early in an investigation to protect its integrity and the rights of those involved.

This case remains active in the court system. Under the U.S. and Iowa constitutions, Knox is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Court records for the case, identified internally as AR 2026004239, 

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