March 29, 2024

NPD officer acquitted of domestic abuse charge

A Newton Police officer accused of physically assaulting his former fiancée has been acquitted of a domestic abuse charge.

Dustin S. Hamell, 29, was charged in July following an alleged altercation in their rural Newton home. Police said the victim's arm was slammed in a door as she was trying to get into a room and he was also accused of pushing the victim twice. He was charged with domestic abuse assault.

A jury began deliberations at approximately 10:45 a.m. Tuesday and returned the not guilty verdict just after 11 a.m.

Hamell has been an officer with the Newton Police Department for three years. The Newton Police Department was made aware of the criminal case July 29 after notification from the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office. He remains on paid leave and an internal investigation is in progress, said Newton Police Chief Rob Burdess.