Lang
12/7/24
An Iowa City drunk driving suspect is accused of fleeing from the police, assaulting an officer, and breaking furniture at the police station.
According to arrest records, just after 1:45 Saturday morning an officer pulled over a 2018 Ford Escape being driven by 35-year-old Michael Barnhart of Keokuk Street on the west end of Southgate Avenue, near Gilbert Street. Police say Barnhart fled from the traffic stop down the Iowa River Trail before he was eventually captured. He reportedly showed signs of intoxication and refused breath testing. Barnhart’s license is barred and revoked for two previous Operating While Intoxicated convictions.
A search warrant was issued for a sample of Barnhart’s blood. While at the hospital, he allegedly threatened to assault an officer, then had to be restrained as he fought with police.
Barnhart is also accused of kicking a desk at the Iowa City Police station on East Washington Street, causing an estimated $500 in damage.
Barnhart is charged with OWI – 3rd or Subsequent Offense, Driving While Barred, Driving While Revoked, 4th Degree Criminal Mischief, Assault On a Peace Officer, Interference With Official Acts, and Public Intoxication. If convicted on all counts, he faces a maximum of over ten years in prison.