Newton Police Department
• Jennifer B. Houston, 48, of Newton, was charged with fifth-degree theft at 5:29 p.m. Feb. 24 in the 100 block of West Second Street South. According to the Newton Police Department, officers were dispatched to the EarthWise Pet Store. Officers were told a female in the store was observed on camera concealing items inside her purse. When officers made contact with the female, identified as Houston, she stated she was going to buy the items at a later date. The total value of the concealed items in Houston’s purse was approximately $39. Houston was cited and released.