DUI suspect accused of kicking cop

SANDPOINT — A Sagle was arrested Saturday after allegedly kicking a Sandpoint Police officer in the face while being taken into custody for driving under the influence.

Jessica Anne Zowal’s arrest stems from a fender bender in the Super 1 Foods parking lot at approximately 5 p.m. Witnesses told police that Zowal clipped a vehicle in a neighboring parking stall.

Zowal, 36, denied being behind the wheel and admitted drinking alcohol at a Laclede bar, according to the arrest report. Zowal failed field sobriety tests and Officer Jeremy Inman took hold of her right wrist to place her under arrest, prompting Zowal to pull away while flailing her arms, the report said. Zowal, who described herself as a retired military rescue swimmer and mechanic, was taken to the ground and began to kick at officers and deputies.

One of the kicks caught Inman on the right side of his face, the report alleges.

Zowal’s breath alcohol content was measured at 0.17, which is a little more than twice the legal limit to drive of 0.08, court documents state.

Zowal was charged with DUI and misdemeanor battery on a law officer. She made an initial appearance in Bonner County Magistrate Court on Monday via videoconferencing with the county jail.

Zowal indicated that she was thrown to the ground during the struggle and asked to be released on her own recognizance so she can start a new job, according to court records. Judge Lori Meulenberg sustained Zowal’s bond, but said she would consider releasing Zowal if she could furnish proof that she has a job lined up, court records said.