March 29, 2024

Police Blotter

Newton Police Department

• James R. McCumber, 31, of Newton was cited with failure to obey a stop sign, driving without insurance and driving with an invalid license after officers where called to the intersection of East 41⁄2 Street and South Fifth Avenue East at 7:34 a.m. Wednesday. McCumber allegedly ran a stop sign and struck a vehicle driven by Gerald D. Repp, 72, of Newton. Officers discovered that McCumber drove without insurance and no valid license. Total damage to his car was estimated at $200 and Repp’s sustained $2,500 worth of damages. No one was reported injured. McCumber was released to appear.

• Elizabeth A. McDaniels, 21, of Newton was cited with driving while license suspended and driving without insurance after officers pulled her over for a traffic stop at 1100 First Ave. E. at 1:27 a.m. Tuesday. She was released to appear.

• Michael R. Smith, 28, of Newton was charged with serious domestic assault, possession of drug paraphernalia and false communication with public safety officials after officers were called to investigate a report 12:18 p.m. Monday. Officers were called earlier in the day to resolve a dispute between Smith and a female. Smith told officers that the female assaulted him, but police could not find any evidence and left. He allegedly continued to make calls to emergency dispatchers. Officers returned to the residence and found bruises on the female’s arm. Officers found a pipe in Smith’s possession and charged him with drug paraphernalia. While in the back of the police cruiser, he allegedly hit his head against the cage and spit up blood. He was cited for spitting. Smith was taken to Jasper County Jail.

• Jacob R. Stengele, 18, of Newton was charged with criminal trespass, aggravated interference with official acts, fifth-degree theft and possession of marijuana after police were called to Union Cemetery at 4:54 p.m. Sunday. Police observed Stengele allegedly stole a flag and ran from police. After police caught him they discovered a bag of marijuana. He was taken to Jasper County Jail.

A criminal charge is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. It is the policy of the Newton Daily News to release the names of individuals charged with a crime who are 16 and older.