52-year-old John Randolph Howell of East Ridge Drive in Conover has been arrested by Newton Police on charges of possession of a firearm by a felon, trafficking opium or heroin, maintaining a vehicle, dwelling or place for a controlled substance; and possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver heroin. He was jailed Saturday (December 19) in the Catawba Co. Detention Facility with bond set at $10,000. An appearance in Superior Court is coming up Wednesday (December 23) in Newton.