A man from Nevada, Iowa, appeared before a United States Magistrate Judge in the Southern District of Iowa. Tanner Dean Bandy, 28, is charged with federal stalking.
According to the criminal complaint, Bandy is accused of a pattern of threatening behavior directed at a former romantic partner through texts and voicemails from January to April 2025. Notably, on April 17, 2025, just two days before his arrest, Bandy allegedly left a voicemail expressing plans for a mass shooting at an Iowa State University commencement. On the same day, law enforcement searched his home and vehicle, finding two firearms and ammunition. Bandy is being held in federal custody as the case proceeds.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal for the Southern District of Iowa announced the arrest. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Iowa State University Police Department, and Story County Sheriff’s Office are investigating.
"No assumptions should be drawn from a criminal complaint as all defendants are assumed innocent until proven guilty," authorities noted.
