Hunter
07/04/24
An Iowa City woman faces possible prison time after being charged with her 3rd OWI and a count of Child Endangerment.
Police say the incident occurred Sunday evening. According to the arrest report, 40-year-old Heather Zaehringer of East Court Street got in to an argument with her spouse. The spouse and the spouse’s brother left the residence, and Zaehringer reportedly followed them in another vehicle, accompanied by her five year old daughter.
Officers were waiting when Zaehringer reportedly walked up to the residence with the child. She allegedly showed signs of intoxication, including bloodshot watery eyes, slurred speech, impaired balance and the odor of ingested alcohol. She reportedly admitted to drinking and showed measurable indications of intoxication on field tests.
Zaehringer refused a post-arrest PBT. She allegedly had the key to the vehicle in her pocket, and it was located, parked a block away. When placed under arrest, Zaehringer allegedly attempted to walk away and continued to resist officers as she was handcuffed and placed in a squad car.
Zaehringer was charged with OWI third offense, Child Endangerment, and Interference with Official Acts. If convicted on all counts, she could be sentenced to over seven years in prison.