Prosecutors toughen charges against former Hawkeye Pierce

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) Prosecutors filed tougher charges Friday against former Iowa basketball player Pierre Pierce in connection with an alleged assault on his former girlfriend last month.

The new charges, which supersede six previous counts filed last week, include two counts of first-degree burglary, one count of assault with intent to commit sexual assault and one count of fourth-degree criminal mischief.

Police say Pierce, 21, choked his former girlfriend at her town house, threatened her with a knife and stripped her after an argument over her new boyfriend. Pierce also is accused of causing damage to her apartment and stealing a laptop and camera.

The amended charges mean Pierce now is charged with three felonies, instead of one, and could face up to 56 years in jail if convicted. Arraignment is set for March 4.

Pierce's attorney, Alfredo Parrish, said he could not comment on the latest developments, but said Pierce will plead not guilty.

Iowa coach Steve Alford dismissed Pierce, who led the Hawkeyes in scoring, from the team.