Newton Police

July 10 At 2 a.m. police arrested Joseph J. Stepongzi, 24, of Morris Plains for careless driving and driving while intoxicated. Stepongzi alleged pulled out of a Trinity Street parking lot into the path of an oncoming police car, and was stopped for careless driving. He was subsequently arrested for DWI and his vehicle was impounded. He was processed and released on his own recognizance pending a scheduled appearance in Newton Municipal Court. At 3:51 a.m. Newton Police were called to an apartment on Spring Street for a reported domestic dispute. Investigation led to the arrest of resident Robert Sanford, 44, who allegedly assaulted a female member of his household with a fishing pole, causing an injury to her left eye region. Sanford was charged with assault and lodged in the Sussex County Jail in default of $750 bail. The victim did not require medical attention. Newton Police are investigating a reported assault upon a Newton man, alleged to have occurred sometime around 11:20 p.m. According to police, a 20-year-old Newton male reported that he and a male friend were walking on Sparta Avenue near the Quick Check when a dark-colored car stopped and 3-4 males got out and chased them. The victim reportedly was caught by the group and struck repeatedly with baseball bats. He complained of injuries to his chest and back, but refused treatment. The investigation is continuing, and anyone with information concerning the report is asked to contact NPD at (973) 383-2525 or via E-mail at crimetips@newtonpolice.org. July 11 An early morning traffic enforcement detail being conducted by a Newton police officer resulted in the arrest of two county people for drug-related offenses. Ptl. Steven VanNieuwland came upon a vehicle parked on Woodside Avenue and initiated an investigation. Dana Osborne, 19, of Andover Township, was found to be in possession of a marijuana pipe and rolling papers. He was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia. Jeff Williamson, 22, of Green Township, was found to be in possession of marijuana and a pipe. He was also charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of