gavel-thumbnailThe Iowa Court of Appeals has reversed a Webster County man’s conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Mathew Davis was stopped by a Fort Dodge police officer after he noticed Davis’ vehicle did not have a license plate.

Davis pulled over, but then took off running. Police found an open beer can in the car, but no other drugs. Officers say Davis had dilated pupils and fidgeted. He was charged and found guilty of third offense operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs or a combination of such substances.

Davis asked for the conviction to be reversed, saying there was not evidence to support that he was under the influence of drugs.

The Iowa Court of Appeals reversed the decision saying there was no evidence to support the controlled substance intoxication and no way to know if the jury found Davis guilty for using alcohol or controlled substances. The case now goes back to district court.