Lang
7/18/21
A drunk driving suspect told police he was just moving his car because of the upcoming farmer’s market…which happened the previous day and in another parking lot.
An Iowa City Police officer reports seeing 33-year-old John Trachsel of Ridgewood Lane enter his vehicle parked in the Rec Center parking lot just before 2:30 Sunday morning. After Trachsel pulled out, he made eye contact with the officer. Police say Trachsel then pulled into another parking spot about 20 spaces down. When the officer approached Trachsel’s car on foot, Trachsel allegedly got out and started walking towards Burlington Street.
The officer caught up to Trachsel, who allegedly showed multiple signs of intoxication and admitted to drinking downtown. Trachsel allegedly claimed he’d only been moving his car to avoid being towed due to the Iowa City Farmer’s Market, which was held the previous day and in the Chauncey Swann ramp next door.
Trachsel provided blood alcohol readings of .132% and .147%. He was arrested and charged with Operating While Intoxicated – 2nd Offense. He has a previous OWI conviction from 2017.