Newton man charged with first-degree theft

A Newton man was charged with first-degree theft after authorities found him in possession of stolen automotive parts valued at more than $63,000.

Shawn David Sabin, 27, faces up to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000 for the theft. He was charged Dec. 15 and has been released to appear in court.

On Nov. 10, the Newton Police Department received a complaint of two custom racing motors and other automotive parts and accessories being taken from a residence located at 1127 E. 12th St. N. The total value of the stolen items was $63,113.

During the investigation, police identified Sabin as a suspect. Authorities received consent by Sabin to search specific areas of his property at 709 E. 13th St. N. in Newton. Officers found the two racing motors and other automotive parts and accessories that were reported stolen on Nov. 10, and Sabin admitted to knowingly possessing the stolen items, according to a news release from the Newton Police Department. He was released to appear in Jasper County District Court.

The case is still under investigation, and authorities are looking for other suspects possibly involved in the incident.