A Sheriff’s deputy in Guthrie County investigating a suspicious vehicle in the parking lot of a Panora convenience store early Sunday morning, ended-up in a scuffle with one of the suspects. The sheriff’s office says at around 4:00 a.m. Sunday, Deputy Kent Gries questioned two men outside the Casey’s General Store in Panora. During the course of investigation, Gries became suspicious the men were involved in some sort of criminal activity. He also saw a weapon in their vehicle.

The Sheriff’s Department says during an attempted pat-down of Jesse Lynn Crawford, of rural Jamaica, Crawford allegedly hit Greis numerous times in the head and upper torso. An intense physical struggle ensued for a lengthy period of time in the Casey’s General Store parking lot, on Highway 4, and into the yard of a business near Casey’s. During the struggle Gries was able to utilize his Taser on Crawford, but Crawford was able to fight through the effects. The Deputy was able to deploy his backup Taser cartridge, but still was not able to take Crawford into custody.

As the struggle continued, the Deputy attempted to radio in for emergency assistance, but was unable to reach Guthrie County dispatch but was able to activate the panic button on his portable radio. While still struggling with Crawford, a passing motorist saw the struggle and stopped to assist. With the motorist’s assistance, Crawford was taken into custody.

Panora EMS crews were called to the scene. They treated both Crawford and Deputy Gries for their injuries. Gries reportedly suffered from physical exhaustion as well as scrapes and bruises. At the time of his arrest, Crawford was found to be in possession of approximately 44 grams of methamphetamine. Authorities say it was the largest seizure of drugs in recent Guthrie County Sheriff’s Office history.

Crawford was booked into the Guthrie County Jail on numerous charges including Assault While Participating in a Felony, Interference with Official Acts with Injury to a Peace Officer, Assault with Injury to a Peace Officer, and Possession with Intent to Deliver Greater than Five Grams of Methamphetamine.

The other suspect was identified as David Michael Cannon, of Grand Junction. He was arrested for Possession of a Dangerous Weapon. Officials say Cannon and Crawford are convicted felons in the State of Iowa, with Crawford having numerous incidents of theft, drug and weapon violations and assault with use or display of a weapon on his record. Both men appeared before a magistrate.

Cannon was released on his own recognizance, while Crawford was being held on bond.