Dubuque, IA – February 28, 2026 — Thomas Austine Jefferson, 30, was arrested Saturday afternoon in the 2800 block of Washington Street on 14 charges related to controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, and driving while barred.

According to arrest records reported by officer Brant, D., Jefferson faces:

•  5 misdemeanor drug possession charges: 4 counts of Drug Possession of Controlled Substance (M) and 1 count of Possession of Controlled Substance – Marijuana 1st Offense (M)

•  2 felony controlled substance violations: Controlled Substance Violation (F) × 2

•  3 misdemeanor paraphernalia charges: Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (M) × 3

•  4 misdemeanor driving violations: Driving While Barred (M) × 4

The arrest occurred at 1:53 p.m. The multiple drug and paraphernalia counts suggest officers located various controlled substances (including marijuana) and related items. The four counts of driving while barred indicate repeated operation of a vehicle despite a prior court-ordered prohibition, often linked to previous serious traffic or criminal offenses.

Under Iowa law, the misdemeanor charges typically carry fines, probation, or short jail terms, while the felony counts could result in prison time depending on quantity, intent, and criminal history.

Jefferson was processed at the Dubuque Law Enforcement Center. He is presumed innocent until proven guilty. No additional details on the incident circumstances have been released, and further lab testing or charges may follow.

This case reflects ongoing local enforcement efforts targeting drug possession and prohibited driving in the Dubuque area.

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