Law enforcement conducted a routine traffic stop that led to the discovery of suspected illegal narcotics in the possession of a passenger.
On March 24 at approximately 1:39 p.m., the Wapello County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on Merrouge Avenue for illegal window tint.
According to court documents, during the stop, Stephen White, 66, of Ottumwa, who was a passenger in the vehicle, was found in possession of three small zip-lock bags containing a crystal-like substance believed to be methamphetamine. A field test was conducted on the substance, which confirmed it tested positive for methamphetamine.
White was also found to be in possession of one additional small zip-lock bag containing a green leafy substance that tested positive for marijuana.
Court records indicate White has two prior convictions for possession of methamphetamine, both dating back to 2025.
White was taken into custody and is currently being held at the Wapello County Jail on a $5,000 cash/surety bond. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 3.
White is charged with possession of a controlled substance—third or subsequent offense (Class D felony), and possession of a controlled substance—marijuana, first offense (serious misdemeanor).
Editors Note: All information was obtained from court documents related to the ongoing investigation.
