Two men were arrested in Guthrie County Sunday after a suspicious vehicle call turned into a physical fight between a deputy and suspect.

According to the Guthrie County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Kent Gries was investigating a suspicious vehicle in the parking lot of the Casey’s General Store in Panora around 4am Sunday.  While making contact with the two adult males in the car, the deputy suspected criminal activity was occurring and also saw a weapon in the vehicle.

While attempting to pat down Jessie Lynn Crawford of rural Jamaica, the suspect became violent began assaulting the deputy by striking him numerous times in the head and upper torso.  The Sheriff’s office says the “intense physical struggle” ensued for a lengthy period of time both in the parking lot and in the yard of a business near Casey’s.

Deputy Gries was able to use both his primary and backup Tasers on Crawford, but the suspect was able to fight through the effects and continue resisting arrest.  The deputy attempted to call for emergency assistance but was unable to reach Guthrie County dispatch.  He was however able to hit the “panic button” on his portable radio and Panora EMS was called to the scene.

Eventually, a passing motorist witnessed the struggle and stopped to help assist in taking Crawford into custody.  He was treated by on-scene by Panora EMS and later released.  Deputy Gries also received treatment for physical exhaustion, scrapes and bruises.

During the arrest, Crawford was found to be in possession of approximately 44 grames of methamphetamine, which the Sheriff’s office says is the largest seizure quantity the department has seen in recent history.

Crawford was booked into the Guthrie County jail and faces felony charges of possession with intent to deliver more than give grams of methamphetamine and assault while participating in a felony.  He’s also charged with interference with official acts with injury to a peace officer and assault with injury to a peace officer.

David Michael Cannon of Grand Junction, who was also in the vehicle, is charged with possession of a dangerous weapon.

Both suspects are convicted felons in the state of Iowa, with Crawford having a record of theft, drug and weapon violations and assault with use or display of a weapon.

After being seen by Guthrie County magistrate Sunday, Cannon was released on his own recognizance, while Crawford is being held in the Guthrie County jail.

Raccoon Valley Radio will continue to bring you more information as it becomes official.