BATAVIA – An Ottumwa man was arrested in rural Jefferson County after authorities discovered he was in possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia during a single-vehicle accident.

According to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, on Sunday, December 28, at around 6:47pm, law enforcement received a 911 call regarding an accident that had occurred in the 1400 block of Highway 34 east of Batavia. 

The driver, who was identified as 30-year-old Derek Lankford of Ottumwa, was traveling westbound on Highway 34 when he lost control of his vehicle and entered the north side ditch, rolling the vehicle and striking a cement culvert. Lankford and a passenger were transported to the Jefferson County Health Center for treatment of minor injuries.

A search warrant was then executed on Lankford’s vehicle. Drug paraphernalia and approximately 16.57 grams of methamphetamine were located within the vehicle.

As a result, Lankford was arrested upon being released from the hospital, and now faces several charges, including Control Substance Violation (class B felony), Drug Tax Stamp Violation (class D felony), Driving while Barred (aggravated misdemeanor), and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He remains in custody on a $25,000 bond.