In Boone, Iowa, Chief Judge Adria Kester of the Second Judicial District was arrested on Tuesday night under charges of operating while intoxicated (OWI). The arrest occurred after reports of her vehicle swerving into oncoming traffic on Highway 30, with one witness claiming to have intervened to prevent a collision.
Around 8 p.m., Boone County Sheriff’s Office received emergency calls describing a pickup truck driving in the wrong direction. Responding deputies found Judge Kester in a state of disorientation, exhibiting symptoms commonly associated with alcohol intoxication, such as bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. A cup with a strong odor of alcohol was also found in the vehicle.
Judge Kester, 55, was subsequently taken to Boone County Hospital, where authorities conducted a blood draw under a warrant. She was booked into the Boone County Jail and released later. The results of her blood test have yet to be publicly disclosed.
This incident has led to significant disruptions within the Iowa judiciary. District Associate Judge Ashley Beisch recused herself, citing a professional connection to Kester, and Boone County Attorney Matthew Speers requested a special prosecutor. The Polk County Attorney’s Office will handle the case, and Chief Justice Susan Christensen has reassigned it to Judge Gregory Brandt of the Fifth Judicial District.
Appearing in court the following morning, Judge Kester pleaded not guilty and waived her preliminary hearing. She was ordered to undergo a substance abuse evaluation and adhere to any subsequent treatment recommendations. Her arraignment has been scheduled for December 22 in Des Moines.
Matt Lindholm, Kester's attorney, stated that she is cooperating with the investigation and acknowledges the gravity of the charges. Sheriff Andy Godzicki expressed his relief that the incident did not result in injuries but acknowledged the complexity of the situation for both the Kester family and law enforcement.
The Iowa Judicial Branch confirmed knowledge of the arrest but did not comment on Judge Kester's future in her role. The Iowa Judicial Qualifications Commission, which addresses judicial conduct complaints, may recommend disciplinary actions if the judiciary is brought into disrepute.
Judge Kester's career in law is extensive. A graduate of Drake University Law School, she has served as a public defender, county attorney, district associate judge since 2013, district court judge since 2017, and was appointed to chief judge in 2022 by Chief Justice Christensen, becoming the first woman in that position within the district.
If convicted, the misdemeanor charge could result in up to one year in jail, a minimum fine of $1,250, and potential license restrictions. This arrest has also sparked broader discussions on judicial accountability following similar DUI-related incidents involving judges nationwide.
