March 28, 2024

Man hides in dumpster following theft

Pair allegedly stole from adult entertainment store

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A Newton man fled from police and hid in a dumpster after allegedly stealing from an adult entertainment store on Monday.

Shaun M. Gienger, 37, and Crystal D. Ross, 29, both face charges following the theft of $81.93 worth of items from the Lion’s Den Adult Super Store, 7717 Highway F48 W.

According to a police report, an employee of the store reported the theft and provided a vehicle description. The pair were located at the intersection of West Eighth Street South and South Second Avenue West at 11:13 p.m. after officers saw the vehicle run a stop sign and pull into a driveway.

When police approached, Gienger fled the scene and hid in a dumpster before officers located him and placed him under arrest. Officers found 2.4 grams of methamphetamine on Ross, who was driving the vehicle, both in her purse and in her bra. During a search of the vehicle, officers found several pipes used for drugs including a glass meth pipe, glass marijuana pipe and glass water bong along with several more in the trunk of the vehicle.

Both Gienger and Ross are charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and fifth-degree theft. Gienger is also charged with a felony eluding charge, interference with official acts and parole violation. Ross is also charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of contraband in correctional institution and driving with license suspended.

Both were taken to the Jasper County Jail. Gienger was denied bail and Ross is being held on a $60,000 cash-only bond.

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at
641-792-3121 ext. 6534
or jpierson@newtondailynews.com