Lang
10/17/21
Iowa City Police have arrested a man they say sped through a Ped Mall alley late Saturday night, almost hitting numerous pedestrians as he crossed Dubuque Street.
According to arrest records, police received numerous trespassing complaints about 37-year-old Bryant Welch of Highway 1 West from various downtown businesses Saturday night. Just after 11:45pm officers on foot patrol saw Welch driving a 2006 Chevy Malibu with Illinois plates eastbound through the alley behind Brother’s at approximately 20 miles per hour. Police say as he crossed the Ped Mall toward the Fieldhouse, Welch almost hit hundreds of pedestrians without slowing down. They note he was swerving around various objects.
Officers were able to block Welch’s vehicle in with a squad car, although he allegedly refused commands to stay inside his vehicle. Welch also allegedly ignored further commands to get into and out of vehicles and buildings as his interaction with police continued.
Police say Welch showed numerous signs of intoxication and refused all breath, blood and urine testing. He was arrested and charged with Operating While Intoxicated – 2nd Offense, Interference with Official Acts, Reckless Driving, Driving While Denied or Revoked, and Driving While Suspended. If convicted on all charges, Welch faces a maximum of over three years in prison.