JUDGE RULES IN THREE DISTRICT COURT CASES

The following cases were heard in Allamakee County District Court Monday, July 24. Judge Joseph Keefe presided:

Puentes -
Luis Fernando Puentes, 38, of Postville, was charged with driving while intoxicated, first offense.
According to an affidavit describing the events that led to the charge, Feb. 19, a Postville police officer witnessed the defendant's vehicle take a turn at a wide angel, crossing into the opposite lane of traffic. A traffic stop was made and the defendant was subject to a field sobriety test, of which he failed. A preliminary breathalyzer test indicated a blood alcohol content above the legal limit.
Puentes was adjudged guilty as charged and sentenced to serve 48 hours in jail, accompanied by a fine of $500. The defendant was also ordered to complete and comply with recommendations set forth in a substance abuse evaluation.

Iseli -
Jason G. Iseli, 28, of Waukon, was charged with operating while intoxicated, second offense.
According to court reports, Aug. 22, 1999, a Waukon police officer observed the defendant driving his vehicle north on West Street SW in Waukon, a one-way, southbound street. The officer followed up with a traffic stop, at which time the officer noted a strong odor of alcohol emanating from the driver's person.
Iseli was subject to a number of field sobriety tests, all of which he failed. A preliminary breathalyzer test indicated a level above .13.
Iseli was arrested and transported to the Waukon Police Department for booking. Results of an intoxilyzer test indicated a blood alcohol content of .162. Iseli was taken to the hospital for an independent chemical test, then returned to the Allamakee County Jail.
Iseli was found to be guilty as charged. Judge Keefe imposed a 48-hour sentence, as well as a $500 fine.

Hamm -
Alice K. Hamm-Murra of Waterville was charged with possession of a firearm as a convicted felon.
Trial information indicates that Aug. 2, 1999, the defendant was found to knowingly have in her possession a firearm or offensive weapon having been previously convicted of a felony in Minnesota, that being wrongfully obtaining assistance.
Adjudged guilty as charged, Hamm was placed on probation for a period of five years.