Spencer, IA (northwestiowanow) — A traffic stop in Clay County led to multiple drug-related charges against two northwest Iowa men Saturday.

A deputy with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle for speeding in the 3200 mile of Highway 18 on the evening of October 17.

During the stop, the deputy observed an open can of an alcoholic beverage inside the vehicle.

Further investigation revealed the passenger, identified as 29-year-old Alex Clark of Emmetsburg, was in possession of a marijuana vape pen. A subsequent search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

According to court records, Clark was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance-Marijuana, Third or Subsequent Offense, an aggravated misdemeanor; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a simple misdemeanor; and Open Container-Passenger 21 Years Old or Older, a scheduled violation.

The driver, 27-year-old Timothy Elliott of Havelock, was also taken into custody following the investigation. He was charged with Driving While Barred, an aggravated misdemeanor; Possession of a Controlled Substance-Marijuana, Second Offense, a serious misdemeanor; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a simple misdemeanor; Speeding; and Violation of a Restricted Driver’s License.

Both men were transported to the Clay County Jail without incident and were held pending an appearance before a magistrate.