On 01/27/2021 at 6:29 P.M. the Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop in the 3500 block of 360th St., Ruthven, Iowa. As a result of the stop and subsequent investigation a passenger in the vehicle, Jacob Lawler (26) of Wall Lake, Iowa, was placed under arrest and charged with unlawful possession of a prescription drug – serious misdemeanor, possession of a controlled substance – serious misdemeanor, possession of drug paraphernalia – simple misdemeanor, and failure to affix drug tax stamp – D felony. Jacob was also found to have a warrant for his arrest through the Des Moines Police Department for criminal mischief 1st degree – C felony. Jacob was transported without incident to the Palo Alto County Jail to await his initial appearance before a judge, as well as extradition to Polk County for the active warrant.
The driver of the vehicle was cited and released for failure to maintain the registration plate.
The Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office was assisted on scene by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit.
A criminal charge is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.