Decorah Man Arrested Following Domestic Abuse and Drug Investigation

Act now—your donation to local news ensures a brighter, more informed tomorrow. DECORAH — A Decorah man has been arrested and charged following a domestic abuse investigation that culminated in a search warrant execution at his residence. Following a lengthy investigation by the Winneshiek County Sheriff's Office, on February 17, 2025, around 2:26 p.m., the Winneshiek County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant at a residence on Dogwood Road in Winneshiek County. As a result of this search warrant, RAYMOND DELAGARZA, 41, of Decorah, was arrested and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail for: D Felony – Domestic abuse assault strangulation with bodily injury Aggravated Misdemeanor – Domestic abuse assault strangulation Aggravated Misdemeanor – First-degree harassment (two counts) Serious Misdemeanor – Possession of controlled substance methamphetamine, first offense Serious Misdemeanor – Possession of controlled substance marijuana, first offense The Winneshiek County Sheriff's Office was assisted by the Winneshiek County Attorney's Office. This case remains under investigation with additional search warrants, arrests and charges pending. Criminal Complaint Details Additional AllegationsThe criminal complaint obtained by DecorahNews.com provides further details about the allegations against Delagarza. The complaint states that law enforcement received reports on both February 12 and February 14 indicating that a female victim was being held against her will by Delagarza. On February 15, a Winneshiek County deputy conducted a welfare check at the victim's residence. She later came to the sheriff's office and disclosed multiple incidents of abuse. According to the complaint, the first reported incident occurred on January 23 while visiting Delagarza's residence at 2480 Dogwood Road. When she attempted to leave, he became physically aggressive. She also reported falling and injuring her knee while trying to escape. A friend later photographed bruising on her neck, and phone location data reportedly corroborated her account. A second incident allegedly took place on January 29. The woman told authorities that she went to the Dogwood residence to retrieve clothing, but was prevented from leaving. The complaint states that Delagarza again became physically aggressive and threatened to kill both her and himself. She provided messages sent to a friend at the time of the alleged incident, as well as text messages from Delagarza in which he reportedly admitted to the abuse. The complaint further states that when law enforcement executed the February 17 search warrant at Delagarza's residence, they found a white crystal substance that field-tested positive for methamphetamine, as well as a vape cartridge that tested positive for THC. Delagarza allegedly admitted to methamphetamine use and acknowledged the presence of the THC vape in his home. He also reportedly admitted to sending messages referencing the alleged assaults but claimed that any injuries sustained were related to consensual sexual activity. This case remains under investigation. Additional developments will be reported as they become available. Don't miss out on important updates! Subscribe to the newsletter for free and stay informed about local topics that matter most to you.