Cedar Rapids police: Fleeing Peoria man had 10 bags of cocaine

A Peoria man with 10 bags of cocaine in southwest Cedar Rapids was arrested Saturday after fleeing from officers, police said.

Kennis R. Petties, 30, was driving a car with a non-functioning taillight, which caught the attention of Cedar Rapids police at 16th Avenue and M Street SW, according to a criminal complaint. When officers attempted a routine traffic stop, Petties fled, and at times exceeded the speed limit by more than 25 mph. The police pursuit continued on foot after he jumped out of the car.

Police said they found Petties in possession of 10 bags of cocaine weighing 4.2 grams, six 3.5-gram packages of cannabis flower marijuana and $2,120 in cash.

Petties has been charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine — a Class C felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison, possession of marijuana (penalty enhanced for previous, related drug convictions), attempt to elude and interference with official acts.

He is being held at the Linn County Jail on $20,000 cash or surety bond.