Authorities have accused a local man of driving after using heroin.

Jason Dawson, 43, was charged July 13 with OWI, third or subsequent possession of a controlled substance, and driving while barred.

According to online court documents, Iowa City police stopped Dawson driving a blue jeep for driving while barred.

While searching Dawson, authorities reportedly located two small bags of heroin in his wallet, as well as straw containing heroin residue in his pocket.

Dawson reportedly admitted to using heroin approximately one hour before he drove. The documents said Dawson showed signs of impairment, and he consented to a DataMaster test that resulted in a 0.000 blood-alcohol level.

A drug-recognition expert tested Dawson for drugs other than alcohol. The expert found Dawson to be under the influence of drugs.

The documents said Dawson was unable to safely operate a motor vehicle.

Dawson has had prior convictions for possession of a controlled substance. The convictions were in Aug. 5, 2005, and Aug. 22, 2006.

OWI is a serious misdemeanor. Driving while barred is an aggravated misdemeanor. Third or subsequent possession of a controlled substance is a Class-D felony.

— by Rebecca Morin