The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan

The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan

The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan

Woman tries to grab officer’s Taser

A local woman faces numerous charges Sunday after she allegedly punched an officer and tried to get a hold of his Taser.

Mary Bobotaylor, 47, 4494 Taft Ave. Apt. 22B, was charged May 8 with OWI, assault on peace officers, driving while revoked, and disarming a police officer of a dangerous weapon.

Iowa City police reports said officers initially stopped the woman for speeding. When they approached the vehicle, officials said Bobotaylor had red, bloodshot watery eyes, smelled of alcohol, and was trying to cram a plate of food in her mouth.

The report said Bobotaylor provided false information at first, but officers later determined her real identity and that her license had been revoked for drug-related convictions.

When being processed, police said Bobotaylor allegedly refused to stay seated, standing up and punching an officer, then grabbing his Taser.

The officer said he let go of the Taser in an attempt to avoid discharging it in her face.

— by Hayley Bruce

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