An Ottumwa man is facing multiple charges in two counties following the alleged discovery of methamphetamine during the booking process at the Jefferson County Jail.
Roberto Rodriguez Ramirez, 35, has been charged in Jefferson County with possession of contraband in a correctional institution, a Class D felony.
According to court records, deputies assisted with the execution of a search warrant at a residence in Batavia on Tuesday, December 16th. Ramirez was reportedly found inside the home asleep and was detained. After his information was run through dispatch, authorities learned he had an outstanding warrant through Wapello County and transported him to the Jefferson County Jail pending transfer.
Court documents state that while in the jail’s sally port, an officer asked Ramirez if he had any narcotics on his person before entering the facility. Ramirez allegedly denied having any drugs. During the intake process, jail staff reportedly located a baggie containing a white crystalline substance consistent with methamphetamine. Approximately 1.07 grams, including packaging, was seized.
After being advised of his Miranda rights, Ramirez allegedly stated he was unaware of the substance and claimed the pants he was wearing did not belong to him.
Updated court records show Ramirez had an outstanding Wapello County warrant from August for possession of a controlled substance—methamphetamine, first offense, a serious misdemeanor—and driving while license denied or revoked, also a serious misdemeanor.
In Wapello County, Ramirez made an initial appearance with an arraignment scheduled for December 31st, 2025. Bond was set at $1,000 cash only. A pretrial conference is scheduled for March 4th, 2026, with a jury trial set for April 9th, 2026. In Jefferson County, Ramirez’s bond was set at $5,000 cash or surety.
