(KIWA Staff Photo)Rock Valley, Iowa — A Rock Valley man has been arrested on a felony OWI charge.
A criminal complaint filed with the Sioux County Clerk of Court’s Office by the Rock Valley Police states that 25-year-old Julman Rayo Ruiz of Rock Valley is accused of driving drunk and while barred from obtaining a license. He was arrested on Sunday.
In his statement, the officer says he saw Rayo Ruiz driving out of the Peoples Bank parking lot in Rock Valley and turning into the wrong lane, then allegedly turning back into the correct lane erratically. He also had a burned-out brake light, according to the officer. When the officer talked to Rayo Ruiz, he noticed bloodshot, watery eyes and a strong odor of alcoholic beverage. The officer says Rayo Ruiz admitted to drinking three beers and later to drinking six beers. Rayo Ruiz is also said to have failed field sobriety tests.
Rayo Ruiz was charged with operating while intoxicated, third or subsequent offense, a class D felony. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison. He also faces misdemeanor charges of driving while barred, operation without ignition interlock, driving without a license, and no proof of insurance.
He faces a preliminary hearing on September 1st.
At last report, he remained in the Sioux County Jail in Orange City in lieu of a $7000 bond.
