On November 18, 2019, at 11:31 p.m., the Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office was called to 4270 360th Street near Emmetsburg, IA., for a report of a suspicious person. The Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office was advised a male subject had walked to the address and stated he was stuck in a field. The Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office searched the area and eventually located a 2002 Dodge Caravan registered to Timothy Murphy (70) of Graettinger, IA. in the field south and east of the residence. The driver of the van fled the area before officer’s arrived at the scene.
After investigation, the Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office determined Timothy Murphy was operating the van westbound in the 4200 Block of 360th Street when it is alleged three to four deer emerged in the roadway. Murphy swerved to avoid colliding with the deer and entered the north ditch. Murphy continued west in the north ditch appoximately 225 feet before crossing over 360th Street and entered the south ditch. Murphy then traveled south in a harvested corn field for approximately 325 feet where he became stuck. Murphy was issued citations for driving while suspended, a simple misdemeanor, and failure to maintain control, a simple misdemeanor. Murphy was given a court date to appear on the charges.
Assisting the Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office was the Emmetsburg Police Department and Wickman Towing.
A criminal charge is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.