Oelwein Police charge three juveniles with theft and charges filed after accident

On April 5, 2026, Oelwein Police filed charges on three juveniles that were detained at 11:49pm on April 3, 2026, after a business in the 10 block of 1st Ave SE called in the group for shoplifting a few minutes prior.  A 17-year-old male juvenile and two 16-year-old male juveniles were each charged with 5th Degree Theft - Simple Misdemeanor.  One 16-year-old juvenile was also charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance (Marijuana) 1st Offense - Serious Misdemeanor.  All three juveniles were released to guardians shortly after being detained, and the guardians were informed of the pending charges.  This matter has been referred to Juvenile Court.

At 2:14pm on April 7, 2026, Oelwein Police responded to a single vehicle accident involving a vehicle striking a tree in the 200 block of 6th Ave SE.  The investigation revealed that a white 2017 Jeep Cherokee, driven by Kathleen Marie Greco, 67, of Oelwein, had turned westbound onto 2nd St SE from 6th Ave SE when they left the roadway and struck a utility pole.  They then backed up from the initial collision and continued reversing for another half block, colliding with a tree in a resident's front yard.  The vehicle then attempted to continue traveling westbound before being stopped by responding officers.  Initial estimates of damages were $11,000 to the vehicle driven by Greco, $1,000 to the utility pole, and $500 to the resident's tree and yard property.  No injuries were reported.  Oelwein Police were assisted by Midwest Towing and Alliant Energy.

As a result of this incident, Greco was charged with Operating While Intoxicated 1st Offense - Serious Misdemeanor and issued a citation for Failure to Maintain Control.