A 40-year-old man from South Sioux City, Nebraska, was arrested around 10:05 p.m. on Sunday, August 17, near Sioux Center, Iowa, following a traffic stop that led to several serious charges. Demarco Maurice Butts faces multiple counts including operating while under the influence — third or subsequent offense, first-offense possession of marijuana, possession of an open container of alcohol, carrying dangerous weapons while under the influence, driving while barred, and driving while his license was denied or revoked.
The arrest occurred after deputies with the Sioux County Sheriff’s Office observed a northbound 2011 GMC Sierra pickup traveling at 66 mph and failing to stop at a stop sign at the intersection of Hickory Avenue and 370th Street, about three miles northeast of Sioux Center.
During the stop, deputies noted that Butts exhibited signs of impairment, including bloodshot and watery eyes and the smell of alcohol. A search of the vehicle revealed an Ozark Trail knife with a 10-inch blade sheathed under the driver’s seat. Additionally, officers discovered an open bottle of DeLeón Añejo Tequila on the floor behind the driver’s seat and a clear Mason jar containing marijuana in a backpack located in the back seat.
Butts was taken into custody and faces enhanced penalties due to his prior OWI offenses and driving-related suspensions.
