Emmet County Sheriff arrested, charged with OWI

SPIRIT LAKE, Iowa (Iowa Media Wire) — The Emmet County Sheriff was charged with an OWI after allegedly failing multiple sobriety tests earlier in June. 

According to court documents, Mike Martens, 61, was seen driving a side-by-side into Marble Beach State Recreation Area Campground in Dickinson County on the morning of June 8 and passing two signs that stated golf carts and side-by-sides were prohibited.  

The documents state that a law enforcement official witnessed Martens drive up the hill in the campground, and then turn around in the roadway while no other vehicles were present.  

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As Martens continued to the front of the park, the witnessing official approached him and explained that he could not drive his side-by-side in the state park and pointed out the signs that Martens had driven past.  

While speaking with Martens, the official allegedly noticed a very strong scent of alcohol and conducted a series of field sobriety tests. The documents state that Martens failed all tests and showed multiple signs of intoxication.  

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According to the documents, Martens blew a .10 on the PBT and .083 at the data master. He was subsequently charged with operating while intoxicated, a serious misdemeanor

On June 10, Martens entered a plea of not guilty and waived an initial appearance.

The Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Martens serves as Sheriff for Emmet County.  Iowa Media Wire 9 reached out to the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office, but Martens was unavailable.