Motor vehicle accident leads to arrest – February 12 *Photos*

On Sunday, February 12, at  9:44 p.m., the Sioux County Sheriff’s Office arrested Shawn Grapler, age 23, of Fairmont, MN.

The arrest stemmed from a report of an accident that occurred on Highway 60, one mile south of Alton, IA.

Graplar was driving a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado northbound on Highway 60 when he lost control of the vehicle, entered the east ditch and struck a fence line and poles.

Graplar reported minor injuries, was checked by EMS and declined further medical attention.

Damage to the Chevrolet was estimated at $16,000.

Upon further investigation, deputies suspected that Grapler was under the influence of a drug. Deputies located a loaded firearm and a second unloaded firearm in the vehicle.

Graplar was transported to the Sioux County Jail where he was charged with operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated (drugs), possession or carrying of dangerous weapons while under the influence, possession of marijuana and possession of Cannabidiol (CBD), and failure to maintain control of a motor vehicle.

The sheriff’s office was assisted by Orange City Ambulance, Orange City Fire Department and Orange City-Alton Police Department.The Rock Valley Police Department Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) also assisted in the investigation.