The Caldwell County Grand Jury has handed down multiple indictments following its August session, with several Princeton residents facing a range of felony charges.
A true bill was returned on Michael Todd Newton, of Princeton, on charges of first-degree arson and first-degree wanton endangerment.
Newton was arrested in July by Princeton Police after officers reported he deliberately set a shirt on fire and placed it on his bed at Highland Homes, located at 219 Stevens Avenue.
In a separate indictment, Newton is also charged in connection with the theft of mail from an incident that occurred in April, which was investigated by the Princeton Police Department.
Audreanna Swetland, of Princeton, was indicted on charges including first-degree possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), possession of drug paraphernalia—with both charges involving complicity—driving under the influence (first offense), possession of marijuana, and two counts of first-degree wanton endangerment.
Taylor Nichole Taylor, of Princeton, was indicted on charges of first-degree possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), possession of drug paraphernalia—with both charges involving complicity—first-degree possession of a controlled substance (Oxycodone), and third-degree possession of a controlled substance (Alprazolam).
Swetland and Taylor were both arrested in June after a crash on North Jefferson Street that resulted in two passengers, including a child, being taken to the hospital. According to Princeton Police, Swetland was driving north on North Jefferson Street when her vehicle left the roadway, struck a tree line, and caused injuries to a 5-year-old girl and Taylor, who were transported to Caldwell Medical Center for treatment.
Police reported that, upon approaching the vehicle, they detected the odor of marijuana. Officers said a further investigation revealed Swetland was under the influence, and officers found marijuana, methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia in her possession.
Authorities said the investigation also revealed that Taylor was in possession of several pills, methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia.
The grand jury indicted Joseph Moore, Princeton, on charges of first-degree criminal mischief and fourth-degree assault from an incident that occurred in April.
Moore was arrested in May following two separate investigations by Princeton Police into domestic disturbances at a residence near the 300 block of North Plum Street, one on April 17 and another on April 26. Police reported that, during both incidents, Moore assaulted the victim and caused property damage.
