Strawberry Point Man Charged With Lottery Theft and Fraudulent Purchase of Firearms

On July 24, 2026, Clayton County deputies, with the assistance of the Strawberry Point Police Department, arrested Luke Dement, 33, of Strawberry Point following an investigation into allegations involving theft, firearms, and Iowa Lottery violations.

The investigation began in April 2026 after the Strawberry Point Chamber and Economic Development Club reported missing cash proceeds from the 2025 Strawberry Days festival. The Strawberry Point Police Department requested the investigation be completed by the Clayton County Sheriff’s Office. During the investigation, it was determined that Dement had stolen funds from the 2025 Strawberry Days festival, to be used for personal gain. Deputies also uncovered fraudulent sales and theft of firearms from a local business where Dement had been employed, and Iowa Lottery violations.

Dement was charged with:

Theft in the Second Degree (Class D Felony)

Lottery—Forgery or Theft of Tickets (Class D Felony)

Fraudulent Purchase of Firearms/Ammunition (Class D Felony)

Following his initial appearance, Dement was released from custody on July 25, 2026, on an appearance bond.