Kidnapping Suspect In Custody

Arrested:  Sparks, Aaron M.; 33 year of age male, Richland resident
Charges:  First Degree Kidnapping, Attempted First Degree Rape

Synopsis:

On January 2, 2013 a female was attacked outside of her home in the 1000 block of Potter Ave.  Through the subsequent criminal investigation Sparks was identified as a possible suspect.  Sparks is a co-worker with the victim in the kidnapping.  A red Toyota Echo was reported being seen in the area where family members had chased the suspect.  Sparks drives a red Echo.  Based upon information gained during the investigation, an attempt to locate order was entered into the NCIC computer system.

Sparks was reported as a missing person by family members.  Multiple attempts had been made to contact Sparks at his residence and on his cell phone with no luck.  Relatives also reported that Sparks' vehicle was missing from his residence.

Richland PD was contacted by the Missoula, MT Police Department.  They had received a call that an individual was being treated for self-inflicted wounds.  They were able to identify the subject as Sparks. Richland coordinated with the Benton County Prosecutor's Office to obtain an arrest warrant.  Sparks was held on the warrant.  A red Toyota Echo was being operated by Sparks.

A search warrant was served on the suspect's residence.  Inside police found a box for a stun gun similar to the one reported by the victim, clothing matching the description of what the suspect was wearing at the time of the kidnapping, proof of purchase of gloves similar to those recovered at the scene, handcuffs and a suicide note.

Sparks is currently in custody in Montana.  A search warrant for his vehicle is pending.  Richland Police investigators are working with members of the Benton County Prosecutor's Office to coordinate Sparks' return to Washington.

Contact Capt. Mike Cobb, 942-7362 for further information.