Hunter
08/28/20
An Iowa City man who eluded police during a vehicle chase is accused of eating a bag of loose marijuana while sitting in the back of a squad car after being apprehended.
Police say they saw 39-year-old Matthew Williams of Sherman Drive approach them from behind heading eastbound on Highway 6 on the afternoon of May 21st. The vehicle then turned northbound on Sycamore Street, allegedly failing to yield to oncoming traffic. Rear facing radar clocked Williams going 47 in a 25 mile per hour zone. After activating lights and siren, a chase ensued.
Police say Williams reached speeds of 55 miles an hour and refused to yield. He allegedly went off the roadway then back on, heading west on Kirkwood avenue. Another officer located the vehicle and Williams refused to stop for them as well.
Williams abandoned the vehicle, and nearby citizens helped police locate it in an alley on East Washington Street. Officers located Williams nearby. While under Miranda, Williams reportedly admitted to trying to get away because he was on parole and didn’t want to go to jail.
Williams reportedly smelled of fresh marijuana and was asked if he had any on his person, which he denied. However, video from the squad car showed Williams eating a bag of loose marijuana while in the back seat. When confronted, he admitted to eating the evidence, saying it was hidden in his pants.
A warrant was requested for Williams’ arrest, and he was served on Thursday. He’s been charged with interference with official acts, a simple misdemeanor, and eluding over 25 miles an hour during the chase. If convicted on both charges, he could be sentenced to up to 25 months in prison.