Lang
7/14/19
Allegedly sticking money in his mouth to foil a Breathalyzer test has led to an Iowa City man’s arrest, while a passenger in his vehicle faces weapons charges.
Iowa City Police pulled over 31-year-old Emanuel Cowley of South Gilbert Street just after 1am Saturday near Highway 1 and Mormon Trek Boulevard. Officers had seen Cowley fail to stop at a stop sign at Highway 6 and Taylor Drive, and followed him as he allegedly sped and crossed the center line near Highway 6 and Hudson Avenue. Cowley showed multiple signs of intoxication and was given a portable Breathalyzer test. He registered a blood alcohol content of .086, but investigators then learned he had stuck two gold dollars in his mouth in an attempt to give an inaccurate reading. He refused to retake the test.
Police say Cowley initially gave them a false name and date of birth. When he finally admitted to his real identity, it was learned he had a barred license and two previous Operating While Intoxicated convictions.
An open bottle of Remy Martin cognac was found under the driver’s side floor mat.
A police K9 alerted to narcotics inside the vehicle, which is registered to the wife of the front seat passenger, 38-year-old Charlie Pitchford of Jaylen Lane in North Liberty. A gram of marijuana was found in the center console, and a .45 caliber handgun with a loaded magazine was found under the passenger seat.
Cowley is charged with OWI- 3rd or Subsequent Offense, Driving While Barred, Interference with Official Acts and Providing False Identity Information. If convicted on all charges, he faces a maximum of over seven years in prison.
Pitchford is charged with Dominion or Control of a Firearm by a Felon, Carrying Weapons and Possession of a Controlled Substance – 3rd or Subsequent Offense. He faces a maximum sentence of 12 years in prison, if convicted.
Online records show Pitchford is also being held for the United States Marshall’s Office.