Columbus Junction man with OWI history arrested after convenience store theft
Hunter
3/14/19
A Columbus Junction man with a history of OWI convictions has multiple additional charges after an incident in Iowa City Wednesday evening.
Arrest records indicate that 45 year old Kory Vedepo of V Avenue allegedly stole a bottle of Bacardi Rum from the Kum & Go on South Riverside Drive and drove recklessly out of the parking lot. An hour later, Vedepo was observed by officers and other members of the public around 6:30pm committing a moving violation. When officers came in contact, they noticed several signs of intoxication. He reportedly had poor balance, nearly falling before catching himself using his vehicle.
A quick check of the vehicle found numerous alcoholic beverages in the vehicle, some already open. Officers say Vedepo became belligerent during the encounter, turning combative and resistive. He was taken into custody for OWI and interference with officials acts and refused to cooperate with any testing.
Due to a history of numerous convictions for OWI the arresting officer was able to obtain a warrant for a blood sample.
A further search of the vehicle turned up two long rifles in the trunk, and the passenger compartment contained a black case with prescription drugs not prescribed to him, ammunition and two marijuana one-hitter pipes.As a felon, he is not allowed to possess firearms.
Vedepo has been charged with third or subsequent OWI, dominion or control of firearms as a felon, possession of drug paraphernalia, unlawful possession of prescription drugs, 5th degree theft, driving while revoked and interference with official acts. If convicted on the charges, he could be sentenced to over 12 years in prison.
