Police Blotter

Prairie City Police Department

• James Robert Jay Jennings, 19, of Eldon was arrested and charged with driving while license suspended and unlawful use of license after a traffic accident early Thursday morning that resulted in $4,000 damage to his vehicle. According to a police report, the subject’s vehicle struck a guard rail in rural Prairie City around 1:15 a.m. causing $500 in property damage. Police said that during the investigation Jennings’ driving record indicated that his license was invalid. Also cited with failure to maintain control, the subject was taken to the Jasper County Jail.

• Christopher Michael Ratcliff, 36, of Monroe was charged with driving while license revoked at 8:15 p.m. Friday during a traffic stop in Prairie City. According to a police report, the subject’s driving record indicated that his driver’s license was invalid. He was released to appear in court.

• Thomas R. Siegel, 21, of Ottumwa was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and interference with official acts at 8:30 p.m. Jan. 29. According to a police report, Siegel was found with the illegal substance and rolling papers during a traffic stop in Prairie City. The officer reported the subject refused to comply with officers during the incident. He was taken into custody and transported to the Jasper County Jail.

A criminal charge is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. It is the policy of the Newton Daily News to release the names of individuals charged with a crime who are 15 and older.