City of Newton, IA

11/05/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/05/2024 10:47

Multiple Arrests Made In Stolen Firearms Investigation

On August 21, 2024 the Newton Police Department received a report of a burglary in the 1600 block of W 7th St S. The victim reported firearms and numerous other items were stolen. Newton Police Department investigated the incident and charged three juveniles for burglary, reckless use of firearms and trafficking stolen firearms.

Over the course of the investigation, the Newton Police Department learned that the parents of some of the suspected juveniles attempted to hide, conceal, and/or alter physical evidence related to the prosecution of their children. The following adults were charged:

Brian Ray Hammer Sr - 44 years old of Newton, IA

  • Accessory After the Fact (Aggravated Misdemeanor)
  • Obstructing Prosecution (Aggravated Misdemeanor)
  • Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor (Simple Misdemeanor)

Amanda Lynn Bruce - 38 years old of Newton, IA

  • Obstructing Prosecution (Aggravated Misdemeanor)

This case is still under investigation.

A criminal charge is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Iowa Criminal Classification
Potential Criminal Penalty
Simple Misdemeanor
Up to 30 days in jail and $625 in fines
Serious Misdemeanor
Up to 1 year in jail and $1875 in fines
Aggravated Misdemeanor
Up to 2 years imprisonment and $6250 in fines
Class D Felony
Up to 5 years imprisonment and $7500 in fines
Class C Felony
Up to 10 years imprisonment and $10,000 in fines
Class B Felony
Up to 25 years imprisonment
Class A Felony
Up to life imprisonment