March 29, 2024

Police Blotter

Newton Police Department

• An 11-year-old female and a 14-year-old female, both of Newton, were charged with fifth-degree theft and possession of tobacco after officers were dispatched at 5:33 p.m. Sept. 30 to Walmart on a report of shoplifters. The two females attempted to steal a bottle of hairspray.

• Keith L. Stephen, 53, and Melissa K. Stephen, 36, both of Newton, were charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of methamphetamine and possession of a Schedule IV controlled substance after officers were dispatched at 11:13 p.m. Tuesday to 732 First Ave. E. on a report of a possible domestic assault. Upon arrival, Keith gave officers permission to search the house, and they found meth, a meth smoking pipe and Alprazolam pills. Melissa also was charged with interference with official acts and assault on a peace officer. When officers located her, she kicked one of them in the groin, one in the leg and one officer received a cut to his right thumb. They were both taken to jail.

• Clinton V. Robinson, 40, of Newton was charged with criminal trespass after officers were dispatched at 10:08 p.m. Sunday to 520 N. Third Ave. E. on a report of a wanted individual. Robinson had been told to stay off the property before, and he said he mostly listens to the homeowners instructions except at night when he comes into the house to sleep. He was taken to jail.

Jasper County Sheriff’s Office

• Megan A. Young, 30, of Knoxville was arrested in Marion County on an active Jasper County warrant and brought to the Jasper County Jail at 6:25 p.m. Wednesday.

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.