Car Chase / Burglary - Newton, MS

The Newton Police Department received a call on June 30, 2025 at approximately 2:00 AM from Newton County E911 stating that fireworks were being taken from a local stand on Eastside Drive. Upon arrival, there were no individuals present. Officers continued to patrol the area when at approximately 3:30 AM, two vehicles returned to the fireworks tent. As officers converged on the area, the two vehicles began to flee in opposite directions. The first vehicle entered onto I-20 East towards Meridian and the second vehicle turned onto HWY 80 East towards Hickory. Officers from the Newton Police Department were able to apprehend the individuals in the second car while the Meridian Police Department and Lauderdale County Sheriff Department assisted in the apprehension of individuals of the first vehicle. Most of the merchandise stolen has been recovered. The following individuals have several charges pending:

Jaquavion Hunter - 21 of Meridian, MS (pictured below)

Jeremiah Ward - 19 of Meridian, MS (pictured below)

Aaron Jones - (not pictured)

Jylin Carpenter - (not pictured)

“We will not tolerate this type of behavior in the City of Newton. The safety and security of our local businesses remains one of our forefront priorities. People from outside our community who believe they can come here to commit crimes, think again. Proud of our officers for their hard work and to our neighboring agencies (Meridian Police Department, Lauderdale County Sheriff Department, and Newton County Sheriff Department) for their assistance.”

Interim Chief McKenzie Patrick