A significant incident unfolded in Keokuk on Tuesday night, involving the theft of a police patrol car and a subsequent pursuit. The events led to the arrest of a local woman who now faces several serious charges. The incident began when an individual entered the Keokuk Police Department with the intention of speaking to an officer. Following this interaction, the person accessed a fully marked patrol vehicle from the department’s lot and fled north toward Fort Madison on Highway 61. Authorities quickly mobilized, and a chase ensued, eventually concluding near Oakland Cemetery after the vehicle was disabled.

The suspect, identified as Megan Jo Plowman, age 32, has been charged with multiple offenses including first-degree theft, attempted burglary, driving while barred, interference with official acts causing injury, assault on a peace officer, and two counts of fifth-degree criminal mischief. Both Plowman and an officer sustained minor injuries during the incident, though only Plowman required medical attention before being incarcerated.

Sequence of Events Leading to the Incident

On the evening of Tuesday, around 11:35 PM, a series of unusual events transpired at the Keokuk Police Department. A woman approached the station seeking to speak with an officer. Upon leaving the premises, she proceeded to the rear of the lot where she gained unauthorized access to a fully marked patrol vehicle. This unexpected action set off a chain of events that would soon escalate into a high-speed chase.

The stolen patrol car was driven northbound on Highway 61 towards Fort Madison. Law enforcement agencies were promptly alerted, including the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and the Fort Madison Police Department. At approximately 11:47 PM, authorities made an attempt to halt the vehicle, which resulted in a pursuit. The chase continued along Highway 61 before turning back towards Keokuk. Eventually, the pursuit came to an end near Oakland Cemetery after the vehicle was disabled. This dramatic sequence of events culminated in the arrest of the suspect.

Consequences and Legal Actions

The aftermath of the incident saw Megan Jo Plowman, a 32-year-old resident of Keokuk, facing severe legal repercussions. She was apprehended and subsequently charged with numerous offenses, reflecting the gravity of her actions. Among the charges are first-degree theft, attempted burglary in the third degree, driving while barred, interference with official acts resulting in injury, assault on a peace officer, and two counts of fifth-degree criminal mischief. These charges underscore the seriousness of the crimes committed.

Plowman was transported to a medical facility for treatment of minor injuries sustained during the incident. Following her medical evaluation, she was taken into custody at the Lee County Correctional Center. An officer involved in the pursuit also suffered minor injuries but did not require hospitalization. The incident highlights the risks faced by law enforcement personnel in the line of duty and the potential consequences for individuals engaging in such dangerous activities.