Illinois woman charged with OWI after driving wrong way

MT. PLEASANT — Shocked commuters called Henry County Sheriff’s Office to report a vehicle driving the wrong way on Highway 218 Monday night, Aug. 26.

These reports came in at approximately 9 p.m., and stated the vehicle was going southbound in the northbound lanes of Highway 218 near the Henry-Washington County line. The Henry County Sheriff’s Office responded and located the vehicle in the 1400-grid of Highway 218.

A traffic stop was performed, and the driver was identified as Jannette Vermeire, 55 of Rock Island, Illinois. An investigation determined Vermeire to be operating while under the influence of alcohol. Vermeire was arrested for Operating While Intoxicated, first offense, Open Container, and Driving on Wrong Side of Two-Way Highway.

The Henry County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Iowa State Patrol.

***A criminal charge is merely an accusation, and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.***