Lang
1/10/22
Coralville Police say a drunk driving suspect claimed to be his own relative to avoid charges.
Officers claim 26-year-old Djuma Matiyabo of Broadway Street in Iowa City was observed backing into a parking spot at the Iowa Lodge on the Coralville Strip just after midnight Monday. He allegedly nearly struck another vehicle in the process, catching the attention of police.
Investigators say they could detect the odor of alcohol coming from Matiyabo, and he showed signs of intoxication. He also refused field sobriety and breath testing.
Police say Matiyabo initially claimed to be his relative, but officers on the scene were able to positively identify him from previous interactions.
Matiyabo is charged with Operating While Intoxicated, Interference With Official Acts and Driving While Barred. If convicted on all counts, he faces a maximum of over three years in prison.