A Coralville man was arrested after reportedly trying to swallow a bag of cocaine.

Kenneth James, 32, was accused March 2 with third-offense possession of a controlled substance and a controlled-substance violation.

Iowa City police officers allegedly conducted a controlled purchase of cocaine from James. Offiicers reportedly observed James as he sold cocaine and were able to buy a quantity of cocaine from James using serialized money.

James allegedly started to fight with police and attempted to swallow a bag of cocaine. He reportedly spit out the white powder and threw it under a car.

James has had two prior convictions.

Third-offense of possession of a controlled substance is a Class-D felony. Controlled-substance violation is a Class-C felony.

— by Rebecca Morin