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.