A 29-year-old Bloomfield man is facing multiple charges, including a felony drug possession charge, after allegedly failing to stop for law enforcement during a traffic stop in Fairfield on Tuesday, December 9th.
Steven Clark was charged with Possession of Controlled Substance – 3rd or Subsequent Offense (Class D Felony), Eluding – Second or Subsequent Violation (Aggravated Misdemeanor), and Driving While Barred (Aggravated Misdemeanor).
According to court documents, an officer observed a vehicle traveling north on North 9th Street at 31 mph in a 25 mph zone. The officer activated emergency lights to initiate a traffic stop, but the vehicle allegedly did not stop and continued northbound.
The officer then activated sirens and followed the vehicle until it reached Gear Avenue. The vehicle allegedly failed to yield at the yield sign and attempted to turn west onto Gear Avenue while two other vehicles were traveling on Gear Avenue toward the suspect vehicle. The suspect vehicle allegedly came to a stop in the middle of the intersection before turning into a residence.
The driver was identified as Steven Clark. According to court documents, Clark stated he saw the emergency lights but his instinct was to continue driving. He later said he wants to be a better person, which is why he eventually pulled over.
Once Clark was placed under arrest, his person was searched. A clear plastic bag containing marijuana was allegedly located in his coat pocket.
The criminal complaint continues to state that Clark has five prior possession of controlled substance convictions in 2015, 2019, 2021, and twice in 2022. Clark was also previously convicted of eluding in 2022 and earlier this year in April. Clark’s driving status in the State of Iowa was confirmed to be barred at the time of the incident.
At this time, Clark’s initial hearing appearance has not been held, so his bail amount has not been set.
