March 28, 2024

Police Blotter

Newton Police Department

• Marcus A. Gifford, 28, of Newton was cited with unsafe backing after authorities responded to a two-vehicle accident at 2:40 p.m. Tuesday at South Eighth Avenue West and West Second Street South. Gifford was southbound on Second Street and proceeding through the intersection at Eighth Avenue when he put his vehicle in reverse, accelerated and drove backward into the front of a vehicle driven by Roger D. Garrels, 31, of Newton. Each vehicle sustained an estimated $500 damage. The case is still under investigation for possible criminal charges.

• Lee E. Kenner, 35, of Newton was charged with fifth-degree theft and public intoxication after authorities responded to a theft complaint at 11:33 a.m. Thursday at Fareway. Kenner was charged for allegedly attempting to take $19.49 in beer. He also smelled of alcohol and failed sobriety maneuvers. A breath test indicated a BAC of .362. He was transported to the Jasper County Jail.

• Johnathan M. Montgomery, 39, of Newton was charged with operating while intoxicated after authorities responded at 12:18 a.m. Thursday to a complaint of an intoxicated male sitting in a truck in the Family Video parking lot. Montgomery had watery bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. A cup of vodka and orange juice and an open can of beer were found in the vehicle. Montgomery refused sobriety tests and was transported 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.