EAGLE GROVE, Iowa — A police officer on the Eagle Grove Police Department is facing a Class D felony charge of Solicitation to Commit a Felony following an incident in Hancock County, according to recently filed court documents.
Records say the incident stems from a Dec. 4 response to a home on Concord Street in Garner, where officers were called to assist a juvenile experiencing a crisis. Garner Police Officer Mathew Berry reported that a knife was located and secured at the scene. During efforts to calm the situation, Berry allegedly contacted Eagle Grove Officer Mark Hennigar by phone for additional support. A criminal complaint was filed the following day, Dec. 5. Court documents do not clarify whether Hennigar was on duty at the time of the call.
In the complaint, Berry alleges that while on the phone, Hennigar became involved in a heated exchange with another adult at the residence and encouraged that person to use the knife against a woman present. The statement was cited as the basis for the felony solicitation charge now pending in Hancock County District Court.
Since the filing, the Iowa District Court for Hancock County has received a request for a temporary no-contact order tied to the case. Hennigar’s attorney has filed objections, arguing that claims of danger are overstated and pointing to broader civil disputes between Hennigar and another adult involved in the incident. The defense also contends that a no-contact order could hinder Hennigar’s ability to work in law enforcement because his job requires him to carry a firearm, and maintains that any restrictions should wait until a full hearing is held.
City records indicate Hennigar has previously served in supervisory positions within the Eagle Grove Police Department. As of this week, the department has not issued a public statement about the allegations, and requests for comment were not returned. It remains unclear whether Hennigar’s employment status has changed, though a job listing for an Eagle Grove officer has recently appeared online.
Because a minor was present during the incident, identifying details about the juvenile and others involved are being withheld. Child-welfare specialists emphasize that heightened confidentiality is often necessary when minors are connected to traumatic or potentially violent situations.
The case is still active and expected to proceed through the court system. Hennigar is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
