A Batavia man is facing multiple charges including operating while intoxicated after an Iowa State Patrol trooper observed erratic driving and littering on Highway 34 in Jefferson County.
James Magoon, 76, of Batavia, was arrested February 24th following a traffic stop on westbound Highway 34.
According to court documents, Iowa State Patrol Trooper Troy Steigleder was behind a pickup truck when he observed the vehicle driving erratically across the roadway. The driver then threw a can out of the driver’s window.
Trooper Steigleder activated his emergency lights, but the vehicle did not stop immediately.
When the vehicle finally stopped, Trooper Steigleder approached on the passenger side. The male driver exited the vehicle and was stumbling, attempting to hold onto the truck for balance. The driver was identified as Magoon.
Court documents state the trooper had to assist Magoon back to the patrol vehicle. Magoon had difficulty with his balance, and while sitting in the patrol car, the trooper detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage.
Trooper Steigleder offered Magoon a series of field sobriety tests.
Magoon failed the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test. When offered the walk and turn test, Magoon stated he did not have the best balance. The trooper then offered alternative tests including the alphabet test (reciting letters E through T), which Magoon could not complete, and a finger dexterity test, which he also failed. Magoon refused the preliminary breath test (PBT).
Trooper Steigleder arrested Magoon and transported him to the Jefferson County Jail.
Trooper Brian Meislahn conducted an inventory of the vehicle and tow report. During the inventory, Trooper Meislahn discovered a circular box container with green leafy substance and a glass pipe in the glove box.
Magoon has been charged with:
- Operating While Under the Influence – 1st Offense (Serious Misdemeanor)
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Simple Misdemeanor)
- Failure to Provide Proof of Financial Liability (Scheduled Violation)
- Depositing or Throwing Litter on Highway (Scheduled Violation)
- Open Container – Driver 21 Years Old and Older (Scheduled Violation)
Magoon was released on his own recognizance.
