Published on September 29, 2025 3:15 pm
Last Updated on September 29, 2025 3:15 pm
Newton city police, Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, and the Jasper County State’s Attorney’s Office participated in a major drug seizure Friday after an investigation at a Newton hotel resulted in the recovery of more than 7-1/2 pounds of methamphetamine.
Newton Police Chief Jim Riddle said the seizure took place at the Cobblestone Hotel and Suites in Newton. The investigation began after hotel staff became suspicious of two guests who failed to adhere to the designated check-out time. A hotel representative said the alert ultimately led to the discovery of a substantial quantity of illegal narcotics.
Following the seizure, authorities arrested and detained 48-year-old Michael W. Vinsel of Lawrenceville on Class X felony counts of Methamphetamine Trafficking, Methamphetamine Delivery, and Possession of Methamphetamine. The other subject has not yet been charged. Vinsel is being held in Jasper County Jail. He is next due in court on Tuesday.
Riddle said the quantity of meth involved has a street value estimated at $135,000.
