March 29, 2024

Trial set for stalking, burglary case

A Newton man accused of stalking a woman and breaking into her home in September is set to appear in court next month where he will face a jury trial.

Thomas A. Fitzgerald, 53, is charged with violating a protective order after officials say he contacted a woman more than 1,000 times, tried to pry open her locked doors and broke a window of her Newton rural home.

Fitzgerald also allegedly stole the woman’s computer tower.

The victim told police she received a combined total of more than 1,000 text messages or phone calls from Fitzgerald, despite a no-contact order being in place. In the texts and voice messages, Fitzgerald demands access to her home and threatens to kill the victim, her attorney and law enforcement.

Fitzgerald pleaded not guilty to charges of stalking, third-degree burglary and harassment, according to court documents. After demanding a speedy trial, he is set to appear in court on Nov. 16.

Fitzgerald had previously been arrested and charged for violating the no-contact order with the victim in the past. As of Friday, he remains at the Jasper County Jail with a $58,000 bond.

Contact Kayla Langmaid at 641-792-3121 ext. 6513 or
klangmaid@newtondailynews.com