Newton Police

January 16 Police officers were detailed to a Mason Avenue address to investigate the burglary of a resident’s motor vehicle. The investigation led to the arrest of James Sweller, 29, of Newton. Sweller’s address is a relatively short distance from the burglarized Mason Avenue home and footprints left in the snow led officers to determine the identify of the defendant. Upon his arrest police recovered additional property, believed to be stolen but not necessarily related to this investigation. Those items included cameras, radar detectors, a rechargeable police-type flashlight and some electronic devices. Sweller was charged with burglary, theft, receiving stolen property, possession of a controlled dangerous substance, and possession of CDS paraphernalia. The investigation is continuing in part with other local police agencies. Sweller was lodged in the Sussex County Jail in lieu of $27,500 bail in connection with these offenses and a traffic warrant from Byram Municipal Court. January 17 Officers were summoned to a Spring Street residence to investigate a burglary that had occurred that day some time between 7:30 a.m. and 12:47 p.m. Unknown actor(s) allegedly entered victim’s apartment and stole a bracelet and cash. The investigation is continuing.