Jury: Jonas guilty in Clive killing

A Clive man claiming self-defense in the stabbing death of Zachary Paulsen, 21, has been found guilty of second-degree murder.

The jury delivered the verdict in the trial of Stephen Robert Jonas, 50, at about 4 p.m. Friday. Paulsen was found nearly dead Aug. 23 in the lot behind Dean Paulsen & Sons Contractors, a business owned by Paulsen’s family.

Assistant Polk County Attorney Olubunmi Salami argued that Jonas stabbed the younger man 35 times sometime after 2:30 a.m. after a night of drinking at Tapz Pub on Hickman Road. Jonas “made a pass” at Paulsen a week prior, who rejected him and tried to ignore his advances.

The defense didn’t deny that Jonas made a sexual advance toward Paulsen. But defense attorney Trevor Andersen argued that the younger man struck first with a hammer, giving Jonas seconds to react and defend himself against the hammer blow.

PREVIOUSLY:

• Sexual advances at root of Clive slaying, lawyer says
• Jury selection begins in Clive murder trial
• Weekend homicide is Clive's first in 10 years

Family and friends of Paulsen nearly filled the seating area in the courtroom Friday, holding hands as the jury returned to the courtroom waiting for the judge to read the verdict.

“We’re very upset about the loss of our son, but we’re very happy about (Jonas) going away,” said Kurt Paulsen, Zachary’s father. “Justice was served.

“We’ve had unbelievable support through this whole thing. This is the most tragic thing you can go through. It was the hardest year of my life. I’m relying on faith, family and friends.”

Jonas’ sentencing date has been set for 9 a.m. Sept. 9.