Newton siblings arrested for dependent adult abuse

Two Newton siblings have been charged with dependent adult abuse after an investigation showed their mother had been found living in poor conditions.

According to the press release, the Newton Fire Department was called to a residence July 20 in the 800 block of East Seventh Street North for a medical call. Upon arrival, EMS crews found a 76-year-old female in extremely poor health and in unsanitary conditions. The woman was transported to the local hospital and later died July 23.

In a joint investigation with the Newton Police Department and Iowa Department of Human Services, it was determined the woman was a dependent of her son, Daniel L. Putz, 46, and daughter Shelly L. Putz, 49. The two were responsible for her daily care necessary for life and health, according to the release. The investigation also revealed Dan and Shelly Putz knowingly deprived their mother of minimum shelter, clothing, supervision and medical care.

At 2:08 p.m. Dec. 11, police arrested both Daniel and Shelly Putz and charged them with dependent adult abuse — reckless serious injury, a class D felony.

They were transported to the Jasper County Jail where they posted a $5,000 cash or surety bond. Both will appear in court at 8:30 a.m. Dec. 29.