Hunter
04/21/21
An area transient wanted on a long list of warrants that include failing to provide authorities with a current address as a sex offender was arrested after allegedly eluding police and leading them on a high-speed chase through Iowa City into West Branch.
Police tried to stop 35-year-old James Joy near the intersection of South Clinton and East Bowery Streets because the vehicle he was driving had no registration plates and a broken taillight showing white light. The officer knew Joy had warrants, had dispatch confirm the warrants were still active and attempted a stop. Joy instead ignored the officer’s lights and siren and reportedly sped off.
Joy is accused of speeding through Iowa City at speeds of up to 66 miles per hour, ignoring multiple traffic lights and signals. He then headed eastbound on Interstate 80, where Johnson County Sheriff’s deputies took over the chase. The pursuit reportedly continued into West Branch, where Joy allegedly turned back and headed westbound back into Iowa City. The chase ended with authorities employing a Pursuit Intervention Techinique.
Joy then allegedly ran from his vehicle, ignoring commands to stop from officers while a K9 was pursuing him. A deputy saw what he believed to be a handgun being thrown by Joy during the pursuit that was later recovered. After being apprehended, Joy reportedly admitted to using cocaine, marijuana, and Adderall, and told officers he was high.
Joy has been charged with Eluding while participating in a Felony, Dominon or Control of a Firearm by a Felon, Interference with Official Acts with use of a Firearm, Carrying Weapons, Driving while Banned, Driving while License Revoked, Possession of Weapons while participating in a Felony, and OWI 2nd Offense. If convicted on all counts, Joy faces up to 28 years in prison.
Joy was wanted for failing to provide his new address as a sex offender after he was kicked out of the Coralville Quality Inn on March 17th. He also faces a handful of charges stemming from an incident on March 16th in the 1900 block of Broadway Street, where Joy is accused of being involved in a fight with approximately 16 subjects. During the altercation, Joy allegedly drew a handgun from his waistband, pointed it at several other subjects, and striking one in the head with the firearm. He then is accused of firing a round into the ground. The entire incident was reportedly captured on video.
Police say Joy was convicted of several Felony offenses including Eluding and Willful Injury causing Bodily Injury in January of this year.