A reported hit-and-run investigation has resulted in an OWI-related arrest after officers say they located the suspected driver
On July 6 at approximately 8:42 p.m., the Ottumwa Police Department investigated a reported hit-and-run accident in the 100 block of South Ferry Street.
According to a criminal complaint, officers later made contact with Mary Hampton, 67, of Ottumwa, who was identified as the driver who allegedly left the scene of the crash.
Court documents state that when officers spoke with Hampton, they observed bloodshot, watery eyes, slurred speech, difficulty maintaining her balance, and detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from her breath.
According to court records, Hampton admitted to consuming alcoholic beverages before driving home.
The complaint also states Hampton refused to perform standardized field sobriety tests and declined to provide a preliminary breath sample. During the arrest, officers allege Hampton resisted by pulling her arms away while they attempted to place her in handcuffs. She was reportedly instructed multiple times to stop but did not comply.
Hampton was transported to the Wapello County Jail and later released after posting a $1,000 cash/surety bond.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 16.
Hampton is charged with Operating While Under the Influence – First Offense, a serious misdemeanor, and Interference with Official Acts, a simple misdemeanor.
Source: Wapello County Court Records and Criminal Complaint.
