Lang
2/9/22
A brief police chase through southeast Iowa City has led to a felony charge against an Iowa City man.
Iowa City Police say they tried to initiate a traffic stop on a 2004 Toyota Sienna just after 1am Tuesday near the corner of Highland Avenue and Sycamore Street. The driver allegedly ignored the officer’s lights and siren and took off at a high rate of speed.
The driver, identified as 40-year-old Joseph Wasmund, was allegedly found a short time later driving to his residence on Sherman Drive. He allegedly showed signs of intoxication, admitted to drinking, and registered breath alcohol levels of .185% and .162%. Police say Wasmund claimed he tried to flee because he was scared when the officer activated his lights and siren.
Wasmund is charged with Eluding and Operating While Intoxicated – 3rd or Subsequent Offense. If convicted on both charges, he faces a maximum of six years in prison.