March 29, 2024

Police Blotter

Newton Police Department

• Angelica M. Garza, 17, of Newton was charged with fifth-degree theft after authorities responded to a theft report at 4:05 p.m. May 14 at Walmart. Garza was charged for allegedly attempting to leave the store with $33.73 worth of items without paying. She was referred to juvenile court services.

• Kelsey L. Hardy, 23, of Newton was charged with simple assault after authorities responded to an assault at 7:15 p.m. Monday at Maytag Park. Hardy was charged for allegedly pushing the victim off a park bench. She was released to appear in court.

• Chelsea A. Watters, 21, of Grinnell was charged with operating while intoxicated after authorities stopped her for a traffic violation at 1:54 a.m. Sunday near the Interstate 80 westbound off-ramp on Iowa Speedway Drive. She failed sobriety maneuvers, and a test indicated a blood alcohol content of .254. She was charged and released to appear in court.

Jasper County Sheriff’s Office

• James L. Koon, 20, of Newton was charged with third-degree burglary and fifth-degree theft at 10:35 p.m. Monday at 1602 N. Second Ave. W. following an investigation of an incident on May 10. Koon was charged for allegedly breaking into a Kellogg man’s vehicle and stealing the vehicle title and a $100 gift card. Koon was taken to the Jasper County Jail.

A criminal charge is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. It is the policy of the Newton Daily News to release the names of individuals charged with a crime who are 16 and older.