March 19, 2024

Police Blotter

Newton Police Department

• Randy K. Smith Jr., 41, of Newton, is charged with driving while license suspended after authorities pulled him over in the 3100 block of First Avenue East at 6:23 a.m. Wednesday. He was taken to the Jasper County Jail.

• Scott A. Pherigo, 58, of Newton, is charged with following too close after authorities were called to the 100 block of Iowa Speedway Drive South at 2:14 p.m. Tuesday. Kelley Mattingly was stopped at a stoplight when Pherigo’s vehicle hit the back of her vehicle. Mattingly had approximately $400 in damage and Pherigo had approximately $100 in damage. He was cited and released to appear.