ESTHERVILLE – A Northern Iowa man speeding through this small town was stopped by police and they discovered a distinct odor and a possible attempt to deal drugs.
On Wednesday, June 28th, 2023, at approximately 4:48 PM, an Estherville police officer conducted a traffic stop for speeding at the intersection of Highway 9 and 360th Avenue just west of Estherville. The suspect was observed speeding on West Central Avenue.
Upon approaching the vehicle and contacting the driver, the officer noticed an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. During the investigation, Officers located a quantity of marijuana, marijuana wax, and drug paraphernalia.
The driver of the vehicle was identified as 38-year-old David Astello of Estherville. Astello was charged following his arrest with:
– Possession with Intent to Deliver Marijuana, Class D Felony
– Possession with Intent to Deliver Marijuana Wax, Class D Felony
– 3rd Offense Possession of Marijuana, an Aggravated Misdemeanor
– Failure to Affix a Drug Tax Stamp, Class D Felony
– Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, simple misdemeanor
Astello was placed under arrest and transported to the Emmet County Jail without incident. He remains in the Emmet County Jail on an $8,000 cash only bond.
The Estherville Police Department was assisted at the scene by the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office.
(PHOTO: DAVID ASTELLO jail photo)