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.
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.
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.