Newton Police Department
• A 15-year-old Newton boy was charged with fourth-degree theft following an investigation of a theft reported at 3:15 p.m. March 25 at Walmart. The boy allegedly took BB guns and a air-soft gun. The merchandise had a total value of $227.85. His case was referred to juvenile authorities.
• Penny S. Cowman, 43, of Monroe was cited for driving while license suspended after police stopped her vehicle in the 100 block of East 10th Street South at 3:48 p.m. Wednesday. Officers recognized that she was driving with a suspended license, and she was released to appear in court.
• Two shoplifters were charged with fourth-degree theft after police arrived at Walmart at 4:43 p.m. Sunday. Employees observed the suspects, James A. Knutsen, 32, of Newton and Sarah K. Snyder, 31, of Newton, purchase a tote filled with $240.90 of unpaid merchandise in it. Both were released to appear.
• Matthew M. Owen, 32, of Newton was charged with serious assault after he turned himself in to authorities at 1:46 p.m. Wednesday for an incident that occurred around 2:40 p.m. Feb. 6. Officers were originally called to 901 S. 13th Ave. E. in reference to an assault. Before officers arrived, Owen left the scene, and police issued a warrant for his arrest. He was taken to the 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.