During a routine traffic stop in Ottumwa, officers observed signs of underage alcohol consumption and the odor of marijuana in a vehicle.
On March 3rd at approximately 5:46 p.m., the Ottumwa Police Department conducted a routine traffic stop in the 400 block of N. Sheridan Avenue. During the stop, officers noted that Jayden Lovelace, 18, of Ottumwa, was a passenger in the vehicle.
The vehicle was searched after officers detected the odor of burnt marijuana coming from inside. During the investigation into potential underage alcohol consumption, Lovelace was asked to step out of the backseat. Officers observed that he had red, bloodshot, watery eyes and smelled of an alcoholic beverage.
At that time, Lovelace attempted to flee on foot. Officers quickly apprehended him and prevented his escape. According to court filings, Lovelace physically resisted officers, attempting to pull away from several fully uniformed police officers. He was taken to the ground and continued to resist while officers tried to place him in handcuffs, using his arms in an effort to prevent his lawful arrest.
Lovelace’s actions interfered with officers as they performed their official duties. He was arrested and taken to the Wapello County Jail, where he was later released on a $300 bond. A preliminary hearing was scheduled for March 5th.
Lovelace is charged with possession or purchase of alcohol by a person under 21 (first offense, scheduled violation) and interference with official acts (simple misdemeanor).
Editors Note: All information was obtained from court documents related to the ongoing investigation.
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