Hunter
04/26/21
An Iowa City man has been arrested after allegedly driving under the influence with a firearm.
Police say the incident occurred just before 5AM Saturday on Interstate 80 near the First Avenue exit. 25-year-old Christian Bryant of Broadway Street was observed driving without a plate and using the lanes improperly. He did not stop immediately after being signaled to do so by officers.
Upon contact, a strong odor of marijuana and ingested alcohol was reportedly coming from the vehicle, and Bryant allegedly had marijuana shake on his lap. He stated that he had smoked marijuana earlier. When asked to step out of the car to be tested for OWI, Bryant reportedly refused and had to be physically removed from his vehicle.
Subsequently, a black Glock handgun with an extended magazine was allegedly found under the driver’s seat. A PBT of Bryant showed his blood-alcohol level within the legal limit, but a DRE evaluation determined he was under the influence of marijuana and unsafe for him to be driving.
Bryant was charged with OWI first offense, Carrying Weapons, Interference with Official Acts while in possession of a firearm, Dominion or Control of a Firearm as a Felon, and Possession of Weapons while participating in a Felony. If convicted on all counts, Bryant could be sentenced to up to 14 years in prison.