Richland Shooting Suspect Arrested

James L. Davis III, 28 years of age, was arrested by Moses Lake PD on December 9.  Davis was hiding at a relative’s home in the area and called requesting to turn himself in.  Davis stated that the pressure exerted by law enforcement officers in Benton, Franklin, Grant and Yakima Counties made hiding out too difficult.  He was taken into custody without incident.

Davis is wanted for his participation in a shooting event that happened in Richland on December 4. Over 20 rounds of 7.62 x 39 mm ammunition were fired at a Ford Explorer occupied by three individuals.  The SUV was hit more than 12 times.

In addition to the 1^st Degree Assault charges from Benton County, Davis is also wanted on 4 warrants.  He was booked into the Grant County Jail.  Richland Police investigators drove to Ephrata to interview Davis.  Transportation to the Benton County jail will occur at a later time.

Contact Cpt. Mike Cobb, 942-7362, for additional information.

Circulation of Fraudulent Emails

Recently there has been a circulation of fraudulent emails suggesting the City of Richland is requesting nominations/selections for an award called the 2013 Best of Richland.  The email suggests that Pet Over Population is a candidate for this award and requests you nominate them for it. 

There is a link to POPP's Facebook page in an effort to suggest legitimacy and another link that is titled, "2013 Best of Richland Awards-Animal Shelter".  Below that a secondary link, in case the first doesn't work is listed and is titled, "http://richland.prokwo.com/sy3nrjq_PET-OVER-POPULATION-PREVENTION "

When you click on the links it takes you to a website that will request money from you.  The Richland Police Department wants all residents to know this is a scam.  It is not affiliated with the City of Richland, or Pet Over Population.  Please do not click on the site link, or process funds as it requests.  If you have any questions regarding this please contact Sgt. Ver Steeg at 509-942-7545.

Posted by Ofc. Rick Kane, Community Services.

Shooting in Richland

Suspect:  Davis, James Leroy III, Black Male, 28 years of age, 5’08”, 160 lbs ; Black Hair, Brown Eyes, Transient

Charge:  3 counts of Assault 1^st Degree

Material Witness:  Singleton, Lowell L.; White Male, 37 years of age, 5’10”, 165, Brown Hair, Blue Eyes, 131 Windhaven LN, Richland

Suspect Vehicle:  Late model Jeep Commander, Maroon in color

James Leroy Davis, III

James Leroy Davis III

Lowell Lavell Singleton

 

Jeep Commander

Synopsis:

On December 4, 2013 at about 9:20 PM a car occupied by Davis and Singleton drove into the area of the 100 block of Bitterroot Dr in Richland.  They came across a Ford Explorer occupied Dominic Bailer, 35, Edward Bolt, 32 and Ricci Vogel, 39 all of Kennewick.  The two groups had been having a dispute.

After driving by the vehicle occupied by the three victims, the maroon Jeep Commander stopped.  Davis got out of the SUV with what was described by witnesses as a rifle.  Davis opened fire on the Explorer hitting it numerous times.  One round went through the pants worn by Bolt and slightly grazed his leg.  No one else in the vehicle was injured.  The Jeep Commander fled the area.

Responding investigators located over 20 expended shell casings of 7.62 x 39 ammunition.  Another round travelled from Bitterroot to the 2500 block of Duportail where it struck an apartment.  No injuries were reported in the apartment complex.

Davis and Singleton are still at large.  Anyone with information on their whereabouts should call 911.

Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

Media should call Cpt. Mike Cobb, 942-7362, with questions.

Holiday Safety Tips

The Richland Police Department is committed to your safety.  This flyer has some safety tips that can be used year-round, but during this holiday season they are a great reminder for us all. Crime prevention is a multi-faceted approach that requires the police and community to work together. Feel free to print it out, share it with people anyway that is convenient and help us by becoming our partner in preventing vehicle prowls. 

Rollover Crash in Richland

On 11-22-2013 at about 10:45 AM a car driven by 55 year old Richland resident David Muller struck a fire hydrant at the intersection of Wright Ave. and Thompson St.  Muller was driving north bound on Wright and apparently suffered some type of medical crisis.  The Ford Escort he was driving left the roadway, sheared off a fire hydrant and rolled into the front yard of a residence.

Photographs below show the geyser of water created when the fire hydrant broke off.  No other vehicles were involved.

Muller was transported from the scene by Richland Fire paramedics.

Contact Cpt. Mike Cobb, 942-7362, for additional information.

Stabbing Occurred At Richland Days Inn

ARRESTED: Coffey, Cassidy S., 32 year old female, Richland

CHARGES: Assault 1^st Degree

Synopsis:

On November 10, 2013 at 6:45 PM, Richland Police were dispatched to a disturbance in progress at the Richland Days Inn.  

32 year old Cassidy Coffey and a 42 year old female were in a room at the Days Inn.  An argument between the females turned into a physical altercation.  Both females sustained injuries during the disturbance with Coffey allegedly stabbing the other female multiple times in the torso.  A folding knife with a blade length of approximately 3 ½” was recovered at the scene.  The nature of the relationship between the two females and details of the incident is under investigation by Richland Police Detectives.

Coffey was booked into the Benton County Jail on a 72-hour hold for Assault 1^st Degree.  The victim was transported from the scene to Kadlec Medical Center and is currently in stable condition.  No additional details are available at this time.  The investigation is continuing.

Contact:  Cpt. Mike Cobb, 942-7362.

Alleged weapon:

School Bus Safety Violations

The Richland Police Department Traffic Safety Unit would like to remind all drivers of the law pertaining to School Bus violations.  The State Law R.C.W. 46.61.370 states: vehicles on a two lane road MUST stop when the Red Lights and STOP SIGN are displayed.  On a four lane road, vehicles traveling in the same direction must stop for the bus, while the oncoming traffic may pass without stopping.  The Traffic Safety Unit has received numerous complaints of violations in south Richland neighborhoods.  The violation doesn’t have to be witnessed by a Police Officer, the driver of the bus may file a complaint that will be followed up by an Officer.  A citation for this violation maybe issued with a fine of $394.00

 

 

Officers will be closely monitoring violations of this type to help create an environment of safety for children accessing the school bus.

 

Contact Cpt. Mike Cobb, 942-7362, for additional information.

Halloween Safety and Fun Community Event

Richland PD's Community Services Unit is inviting children to stop by the Police Station between the hours of 3 PM and 6 PM on October 31, 2013. Our goal is to host an event that will allow us to promote Halloween, child and personal safety.  There will be a patrol car for the kids to look at, flyer's & coloring books on safety topics for both the kids and their parents & since it is Halloween we will even have some candy for the kids. 

RPD is excited to interact with the citizens of this great community and their children.  If you have any questions about this event contact Ofc. Rick Kane.

2014 Citizens Academy Now Accepting Applications

The 2014 Citizens Academy is now accepting applications for enrollment. If you are like most folks, you probably haven’t had the occasion to learn much about the workings of your police department, the criminal justice system, or the emergency response system in your community.  For Richland citizens, your police department offers an annual twelve-session Citizens’ Police Academy which begins in January 7th and continues into March 25th.  The Academy classes are held Tuesday night of each week, and one Saturday session toward the end of the Academy. Attendance is limited; priority attendance will be given to current Richland residents and those who have not attended before.  These positions are filled on a first-come-first-served basis, so if you’re interested don’t delay!  To apply, complete the app below and mail to Richland PD, Attn. Ofc. Rick Kane, PO BOX 190, MS-17, Richland, WA 99352, or drop it off at the station.

Distracted Driving Education

 

The Richland Police Department Traffic Safety Unit is asking you to please put down the cell phone while operating a motor vehicle.  The Washington State Law RCW 46.61.667 Using a wireless communications device while driving and RCW 46.61.668 Texting while driving while cost you $124.00 fine.  We remind you that drivers with an Intermediate License cannot use a cell phone while driving even hands free.  

Parents please watch the attached video of a family dealing with the loss of a child due to texting while driving.  Please talk with your children about this video and the consequences texting could cause your family. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XT0k--HnHrM 

What is distracted driving?
Distraction occurs any time you take your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, and your mind off your primary task: driving safely. Any non-driving activity you engage in is a potential distraction and increases your risk of crashing

Who are the most serious offenders?
Our youngest and most inexperienced drivers are most at risk, with 16% of all distracted driving crashes involving drivers under 20. But they are not alone. At any given moment during daylight hours, over 800,000 vehicles are being driven by someone using a hand-held cell phone.

Sending or reading one text is pretty quick, unlike a phone conversation - wouldn't that be okay?
Texting is the most alarming distraction because it involves manual, visual, and cognitive distraction simultaneously. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 4.6 seconds. At 55 mph, that's like driving the length of an entire football field, blindfolded. It's extraordinarily dangerous. If you have any questions regarding this program please contact Cpl. Scott Morrell at 509-942-7715.

 

                                       

 

 

Subjects Arrested on Warrants and Meth

Arrested:  Ayers, Casey Michelle; 30 year of age female, Richland Resident

Warrants:  2 Felony warrants for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Felony warrant for ID Theft, Felony warrant for Theft of a Motor Vehicle

Arrested: Coffey, Brandon Lloyd; 23 year of age male, Kennewick address

Charge:  Possession of a Controlled Substance (methamphetamine)

Synopsis:

On 9-29-13 at about 5:10 PM officers made a traffic stop in the area of Putnam and Wright in Richland.  The reason for the stop was several equipment violations.  Ayers and Coffey were passengers in the vehicle.

After citing the driver for equipment violations the officers began speaking with Ayers and Coffey.  Ayers admitted to having 4 warrants out for her arrest.  Those warrants were confirmed and Ayers was taken from the vehicle.  As she was exiting, officer noticed a syringe containing a clear liquid on the floorboards at the feet of Coffey.  He was also taken into custody.

After a brief interview, Ayers was booked into the Benton County jail.  Coffey was later released and charges will be forwarded to the Benton County Prosecutor for review.  The vehicle driven by Misty Schneider was impounded pending execution of a search warrant.

Contact Cpt. Mike Cobb, 942-7362 for additional information.

Richland Police Investigate Homicide

Arrested:  Miller, Lawrence A., 34 year of age male, Richland resident

Charge:  Murder 2

Victim:  Vandeventer, Rebeca; 32 year of age female, Richland resident

Synopsis:

On 9-11-13 at approximately 11:30 PM officers responded to a suspicious circumstance / welfare check in the 1100 block of Dos Palos Ct. in Richland.  A neighbor had reported that three children, ages 2, 4 and 8 had come to her door crying and said that their mother was dead.  Upon arrival officers contacted several small children who were upset and crying.

Officers went to the apartment that the children had pointed out to them and found a female, later identified as Vandeventer, laying on the floor.  The 32 year of age female had suffered multiple stab wounds and was unresponsive.  No suspect was present at the scene.  Richland FD medics were called to the scene and confirmed that the female was deceased.  Members of the Benton County Sheriff’s Office and West Richland PD also responded to assist.

Miller ultimately drove to the Richland Police Department where he was taken into custody without further incident. 

Richland PD detectives were called in to aid Field Operations staff manage the crime scene and lead the investigation.  The WSP Crime Lab was called and has responded to help process the crime scene.

After consulting with the Benton County Prosecutor’s Office, Miller was booked into the Benton County jail on a 72 hour hold for investigation of 2^nd Degree Murder.

An autopsy is scheduled for Friday September 13, 2013.

At this time a press briefing is tentatively scheduled for Monday September 16, 2013 at 2:00 PM at the Benton County Coroner’s Office.

The investigation is continuing.

Contact Cpt. Mike Cobb, 942-7362, for additional information.

 

2 Injured in Richland Stabbing Incident

Arrested:  Norman, Timothy J., 23 year of age male, Richland resident

Victim:  Withers, Cameron S., 36 year of age male, Richland resident

Victim:  Jetton, Richard M., 49 year of age male, Richland resident

Charge:  Assault 2 (two counts) / Domestic Violence

Synopsis:

On 9-11-13 at approximately 11:40 PM Richland officers were advised of a stabbing in progress in the 1300 block of Carolina Ave.  Richland officers had a delayed response since they were involved investigating a homicide in the 1100 block of Dos Palos Ct. Members of Kennewick PD’s CAT team, and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office responded to assist.  Upon arrival investigators found that a fight had ensued between Norman, Cameron Withers, Richard Jetton and a transient acquaintance Tyson Baker.  Norman had been hitting Withers when Baker and Jetton interceded.  Baker and Withers were able to calm Norman and thought that the conflict was over. 

After a few minutes Norman again became combative and pulled a knife from his waistband. He began to assault Withers a second time.  Baker and Jetton intervened and Jetton was stabbed in the right hand.  Withers also sustained several lacerations to the top of his head.  The three were able to disarm Norman and restrain him until officers arrived on scene.

Norman was taken into custody.  After consulting with the Benton County Prosecutor’s Office he was held on a 72 hour investigative hold for Assault 2.  Norman was transported to the Benton County Jail by a member of the Kennewick PD CAT team. 

Both victims were treated and released.  The DV enhancement is due to the fact Norman and Withers are married and Jetton is a roommate. 

 For additional information, contact Cpt. Mike Cobb, 942-7362

Boat Prowling Arrest Made in Richland

Arrested:  Higgins, James A.; 32 year of age male, Transient

Charges:  2 counts of vehicle prowling, making false and misleading statements to police, disorderly conduct, criminal trespass

Synopsis:

On 8-24-2013 at about 11:20 AM Richland officers responded to the area of the Columbia Park Trail Marina, 1776 CPT, for a call of an unknown male rummaging through boats on two different docks that are not open to the public.

Upon arrival officers contacted Higgins under the steering column of a boat removing electronics.  He initially identified himself as the boat’s owner from a registration found in the dashboard.  Higgins was displaying signs of being under the influence of drugs.  Higgins was found to be in possession of a number of items.

After Higgins was arrested one of the boat owners was contacted and identified a bag of tools, an anchor, trolling motor controller, a fishing rod and reel, 2 life vests, dock hook, oar, and miscellaneous hand tools all had been removed from his boat.  They were found on the boat Higgins was arrested off of and returned to the owner.

Higgins was transported to the Benton County jail where he was booked on the above listed charges.

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

Community Meeting - Sex Offender Jeffrey D. Smith

Jeffrey D. Smith

On August 19, 2013 the public was notified that Jeffrey D. Smith was upgraded from a Level I to a Level II Sexual Offender due to inappropriate comments and behavior in the area of the Horn Rapids Community Development. 

 

This information has generated requests from a significant number of concerned citizens.  To provide more information and answer relevant questions a Community Notification meeting will be held at the Richland Police Department on August 30, 2013 at 6:00 PM.  This meeting is open to the public and is an appropriate forum for those interested in additional information on Smith as well as other sexual offenders residing within the City of Richland. 

 

The Richland Police Department appreciates the assistance from our media partners in getting this notice to the public.

 

For additional information contact Cap. Mike Cobb at 509-942-7362.

Level II Sex Offender

Jeffrey D. Smith

Smith, Jeffrey D., 34 year of age male, 5'08", 235 lbs., Brown Hair, Hazel Eyes
Residence:  2800 Block of Monarch, Richland

Convictions:
Indecent Liberties, Fort Knox, KY - 07/08/2011
Aggravated Sexual Abuse, Fort Knox, KY - 07/08/2011

Smith currently resides in the Horn Rapids Community Development.  Smith's crimes were committed against an adult female while serving in the U.S. Army.  Smith was originally rated a Level I sexual offender but has been raised to a Level II after multiple reports of him making inappropriate sexual comments towards citizens and young children while facilitating the Horn Rapids Community Pool.  Smith is NOT currently on Department of Corrections supervision.

SMITH IS NOT WANTED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT. THIS NOTICICE IS FOR INFORMATION ONLY.

• The treatment of sexual offenders does not guarantee they will or will not commit another offense.
• This information is provided in accordance with RCW 4.24.550.  The Benton County Sheriff's Office or the Richland Police Department has no legal authority to direct where a sex offender may live. Unless court ordered restrictions exist, the offender is constitutionally free to live wherever he chooses.
• Citizen abuse of this information to threaten, intimidate, or harass registered sex offenders will not be tolerated.  Such abuse could end our ability to do community notifications.
• The Sexual Assault Response Center is available 24 hours a day to provide advocacy, information, referrals, and crisis intervention for victims of sexual violence.  Please call them at 509-374-5391 for support or information pertaining to sexual assault.

For additional information and safety tips regarding registered sex offenders in your area, log onto the Benton County Web Site at www.co.benton.wa.us  or contact Richland Police Department Detective Athena Clark at 509-942-7354 or via email at aclark@ci.richland.wa.us.

Media questions should be referred to Capt. Mike Cobb at 509-942-7362.

2 Arrested for Richland Vehicle Prowling, Drugs, Possession of Stolen Property

Arrested:  Gaines, Eric R., 23 year of age male, Pasco address
Charges:  Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Stolen Property, Vehicle Prowling

Arrested:  Fisher, Lidiya V., 22 year of age female, Pasco address
Charges:  Possession of Stolen Property, Vehicle Prowling

Synopsis:

On 8-17-2013 at approximately 4:20 AM Richland officers were called to a possible vehicle prowl in progress in the 1100 block of Country Ridge Drive.  The caller advised 911 that a male subject had pulled up and went dark near the mail box of 1101 Foxtrot Lane.  The male subject exited his vehicle and walked across the street. The witness observed him in the trunk of a vehicle and watched as he removed a bag and headed back to his car.

Officers contacted Gaines near the trunk of his vehicle.  Fisher was contacted sitting in the passenger seat.

In plain view officers found mail, car stereos, and tools that appeared to have been taken from cars in the area.  One resident positively identified the tools, a set of keys and a laser pointer found on Gaines' person.

Both subjects were arrested for vehicle prowling and possession of stolen property.  The vehicle they were in was impounded so that a warrant could be obtained to search it.  After being taken to the jail, methamphetamine was found in Gaines' wallet.

A search warrant was served on the vehicle.  Additional methamphetamine was found in the car along with stolen CD's and an amplifier.

Both subjects were booked into the  Benton County jail on the above charges.

Contact Capt. Mike Cobb, 509-942-7362 for additional information.

2014 RPD Citizens Academy applications are being accepted.

If you are like most folks, you probably haven’t had the occasion to learn much about the workings of your police department, the criminal justice system, or the emergency response system in your community. For Richland citizens, your police department offers an annual twelve-session Citizens’ Police Academy which runs January 7th through March 25th. The Academy classes are held Tuesday night of each week, and one Saturday session toward the end of the Academy. Attendance is limited; priority attendance will be given to current Richland residents and those who have not attended before. Richland PD's Citizen's Academy schedule has been determined and we are now accepting applications for the 2014 session. Applications will be accepted until the class is full. A background check is required. Applications may be mailed, or dropped off at the station. The mailing address is Richland PD, Attn. Ofc. Kane, 871 GEO WA Way, PO BOX 190, MS-17, Richland, WA 99352. If you have any questions do not hesitate to call Ofc. Kane at 509-942-7636.

Ignite Mentoring, Tim Bush Motors and RPD Partnership

Ignite Youth Mentoring has partnered with Tim Bush Motors and the Richland Police Department to provide an opportunity for 15 pairs of adults and young people in our community to complete the Ropes Challenge Course in Columbia Park.

This partnership provides a chance for the Ignite Mentor matches to increase their skills in teamwork and develop trust in people that support them.  A generous donation from Tim Bush Motors has made this adventure possible.  Members of the Richland Police Department will be on site to assist and provide some positive contacts with the members of law enforcement.

The Ropes Challenge course will be Saturday August 17 from 9:00 – 3:00.

For additional information contact Capt. Mike Cobb, 942-7362 or Todd Kleppin at 948-7888.

Hit and Run Investigation

Victim: Marissa Dillard Richland Resident 26 Years Old The Richland Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying the driver from a hit-and-run accident that occurred on 8/13/13 at approximately 1030 AM in the area of Lee between Thayer and Snow. A skateboarder was crossing eastbound at the intersection when a car turned from westbound Lee into the intersection and either collided with or caused the skateboarder to fall. The driver was apparently using a cell phone at the time of the accident. The driver contacted the victim and offered the victim a ride and offered to give the victim money. The driver stated they could not stay because she had to pick up her children at a daycare. The victim road away with numerous scrapes and bruises, but soon went to the emergency room and was found to have sustained some significant injuries. The driver never called for police assistance and never identified herself to the victim. The suspect vehicle is a silver or gray early to late 2000 model Mercedes Benz 4 door sedan, possibly a C class. The vehicle has tinted windows and after-market rims. The driver is described as a white or Hispanic female with dark hair and dark eyes. She is believed to be in her late 20s to early 30s and is approximately 5-06 to 5-07 in height and about 120 pounds. Any information or witnesses to the collision should contact Corporal Erik Lundquist at the Richland Police Department at 942-7716.

Accident Swift/Wright

On 8/6/13 at 1120 hrs, Richland Police Department responded to a 4 car accident at Swift and Wright.  The investigation found that a 1997 Ford F150 operated by Cory Cleavenger of West Richland was north bound on Wright and failled to stop for the stop sign for north bound traffic.  A 2001 Mitsubishi was west bound on Swift operated by Adam Gutierrez of Richland, his vehicle struck the passenger side of the truck causing it to skid to the left striking a 1997 General Motors pickup operated by Garrett O'Rourke that was stopped for the stop sign in the south bound lane of Wright.  The Ford pickup rolled onto its top and sent pieces of the vehicles into a 1998 Honda operated by Timothy Gerds of Pasco that was approaching the intersection behind the pickup that was stopped for the south bound stop sign.  A 64 yr old female was transported from the scene by Richland Ambulance complaining of back injuries.  She was the passenger in O'Rourke's vehicle.

Richland's National Night Out against crime and drugs is scheduled for August 6th from 5 PM to 8 PM. The event is again sponsored by Target Corporation and is being held at Howard Amon Park behind the Richland Community Center located at 500 Howard Amon Drive. Several special events are scheduled including a live band sponsored by the Friends of the Richland Library, free hot dogs and ice cream to the first 500 people, SWAT, BOMB and Richland Fire Equipment displays. We encourage all Richland citizens to come down and enjoy their night against crime and gangs. For more information contact Community Services Officer Rick Kane at 509-942-7636 or rkane@ci.richland.wa.us

Level 2 Sex Offender Notification

Vincent M. Harris

Harris, Vincent M
34 years of age, white male
5'll", 180 lbs. Bro Hair, Blue Eyes
Address:  500 Block George Washington Way Richland








Convictions:
Child Molestation, 1998, Indiana
Sexual Misconduct w/ Minor, 1998, Indiana
Fail to Register as Sex Offender, 2006, Tennessee
Fail to Register as Sex Offender, 2010, Oklahoma
Fail to Register as Sex Offender, 2012, Franklin Co, WA

Harris recently moved to Richland, WA.  Harris’s victim involves a 16 year old female.  Harris IS NOT currently on Department of Corrections supervision.  He is a “Covered Offender” under RCW 9A.44.190, meaning he is trespassed from all parks, schools and their grounds and libraries in Benton and Franklin Counties. 

HARRIS IS NOT WANTED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT.  THIS IS FOR INFORMATION

ONLY.

·         The treatment of sexual offenders does not guarantee they will or will not commit another offense. 

·         This information is provided in accordance with RCW 4.24.550.  The Benton County Sheriff’s Office has no legal authority to direct where a sex offender may live.  Unless court ordered restrictions exist, the offender is constitutionally free to live wherever he chooses.

·         Citizen abuse of this information to threaten, intimidate, or harass registered sex offenders will not be tolerated.  Such abuse could end our ability to do community notifications.

·         The Sexual Assault Response Center is available 24 hours a day to provide advocacy, information, referrals, and crisis intervention for victims of sexual violence.  Please give them a call for support or information pertaining to sexual assault at 374-5391.

For additional information and safety tips regarding registered sex offenders in your area log into the Benton County Web site at www.co.benton.wa.us or contact Richland Police Department Detective Athena Clark at 509-942-7354 or email aclark@ci.richland.wa.us.

Media questions may be directed to Capt. Mike Cobb, 509-942-7362

2 Men Arrested for First Degree Murder in Richland Homicide

Arrested:  Hunt, Joshua H., 19 year of age male, Richland Resident

Arrested:  Young, John C., 18 year of age male, Richland Resident

Charge:  Murder in the First Degree

Victim:  Snapp, Joshua J., 17 year of age male, Richland Resident

Synopsis:

On July 4, 2013 Joshua Hunt and John Young lured Joshua Snapp to Beardsley Rd off of SR 240 with the pretext of smoking marijuana.  Once at the location Hunt and Young confronted Snapp about being an informant and money the victim owed to Hunt.  After the confrontation Hunt and Young shot the victim in the chest and the head. 

The suspects then drove to the Benton City area where they put several items into a back pack and threw them into the Yakima River.  Young contacted the clerk at the Conoco convenience store and asked her to call 911.  Benton County deputies arrived and took the two into custody.

Richland Police and Benton County SO located the body of Snapp in the desert off of Beardsely Rd.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.

After consultation with the Benton County Prosecutor Andy Miller, the two suspects were booked into the Benton County Jail on charges of Murder in the First Degree.

The investigation is continuing.  Updates will be published as additional information becomes available.

Media contacts may call Capt. Mike Cobb, 531-6604, with questions.  July 5-7 questions will need to be directed to Sgt. Kevin Berger, 528-0429.

Level III Sex Offender Notification

Motyka, Phillip J. Jr.
46 year of age male
5'05", 175 lbs. Brown Hair, Blue Eyes
Residence:  500 Block Berkshire Street Richland

Convictions:
Communication with a minor for immoral purposes, 1985, Benton County
Rape in the Third Degree, 1990, Benton County
Failure to Register as Sex Offender,  1992, Benton County
Failure to Register as Sex Offender, 1993, Benton County
Failure to Register as Sex Offender,  2012, Spokane

IN JUNE 2013, MOTYKA WAS RELEASED FROM COYOTE RIDGE CORRECTIONS

CENTER AFTER SERVING 10 MONTHS.  UPON RELEASE HE MOVED TO THE CITY

OF RICHLAND, WA.  MOTYKA IS CURRENTLY ON PROBATION AND IS UNDER DOC

SUPERVISION.

MOTYKA HAS BEEN TRESPASSED FROM ALL CITY PARKS, SCHOOLS AND THEIR GROUNDS AND THE LIBRARY.

·         The treatment of sexual offenders does not guarantee they will or will not commit another offense. 

·         This information is provided in accordance with RCW 4.24.550.  The Richland Police Department has no legal authority to direct where a sex offender may live.  Unless court ordered restrictions exist, the offender is constitutionally free to live wherever he chooses.

·         Citizen abuse of this information to threaten, intimidate, or harass registered sex offenders will not be tolerated.  Such abuse could end our ability to do community notifications.

·         The Sexual Assault Response Center is available 24 hours a day to provide advocacy, information, referrals, and crisis intervention for victims of sexual violence.  Please give them a call for support or information pertaining to sexual assault at 374-5391.

A community notification meeting will be held at the Richland Police Department on July 11, 2013 at 1800 hours for those interested in additional information about sexual offenders.

For additional information and safety tips regarding registered sex offenders in your area log into the Benton County Web site at www.co.benton.wa.us

 

National Night Out 2013 @ Howard Amon Park.

Richland's National Night Out against crime and drugs is scheduled for August 6th from 5 PM to 8 PM.  The event is again sponsored by Target Corporation and is being held at Howard Amon Park behind the Richland Community Center located at 500 Howard Amon Drive.  Several special events are scheduled including a live band sponsored by the Friends of the Richland Library, free hot dogs and ice cream to the first 500 people, SWAT, BOMB and Richland Fire Equipment displays.  We encourage all Richland citizens to come down and enjoy their night against crime and gangs. For more information contact Community Services Officer Rick Kane at 509-942-7636 or rkane@ci.richland.wa.us

Armed Robbery at Richland Convenience Store

Armed Robbery Suspect
 

Suspect:  White male, 23-27 years of age, 5-10 to 5-11, dark hair and mustache

Last seen wearing: White shirt, black cap, black jean shorts, black shoes, white socks, black and white checkered flannel jacket

Vehicle:  Dark colored sedan
Weapon:  Dark, semi-automatic handgun

Synopsis:

On June 16, 2013 at approximately 9:25 PM officers were dispatched to an armed robbery that had just occurred at the Lucky Foodmart, 22 Goethals Drive. 

The suspect entered the store and began looking at several items near the front counter.  He then walked to the back of the store and commented to a store employee that he “had the munchies”.  The employee said that he must have smoked marijuana and the suspect replied that it was legal here.  He waited for another customer to leave and then approached the counter.

The suspect pulled a pistol from his waist band and told the employee to give him the money.  The pistol was described as a semi-automatic hand gun, dark with silver markings.
After being given an undisclosed amount of cash, the suspect fled the store on foot.  The employee reported that a car left north bound on Goethals Drive. 

Another witness in the area reported seeing a red Chevrolet north of the store at about the same time as the robbery.  The witness thought that the model may have been Beretta or Cavalier. 

Photos of the suspect are above.  Anyone with information is asked to call the non-emergency number for Southeast Communications, 628-0333.

Contact Capt. Cobb, 942-7362, for additional information.           

Davison closed for rollover accident

Davison Ave., at McMurray St., was closed for 1 1/2 hours while a rollover accident was investigated by the Richland Police Department. An 85 year old female from Richland may have experienced a medical problem while driving south on Davison and hit a parked car, causing her car to flipped upside down onto its rooftop. The 85 year old female was trapped in her car upside down for about 15 minutes while fire and police personnel worked to get her out of the car. She was transported to Kadlec Medical Center complaining of shoulder and neck pain. The parked car belonged to a Bothell man visiting his daughter who lives in the area.

Leslie Drive Closed for Rollover Vehicle Crash

Updated:
 Leslie Drive was opened at 3:00 PM. The 46 year old driver of the pickup, a Richland resident, and his 64 year old female passenger, also a resident of Richland, were still being treated at Kadlec Medical Center at this posting but were scheduled to be released later on Saturday evening. The 21 year old driver of the Honda Civic, from Seattle, was found to be at fault for the accident. Leslie Drive was closed for just over three hours while the accident was investigated and the vehicles removed.  

Earlier Posting:
Leslie Drive is closed  between Columbia Point Trail and Elementary Street.  Officers are investigating a rollover crash in the area that occurred at approximately 12:15.  The street will be closed until approximately 3:00 PM.

A Honda Civic driven by a 21 year of age male failed to yield from a stop sign on Canyon and struck a pick up driven by a 46 year of age male that was travelling on Leslie.  The pick up rolled onto it's side.

The driver and a female passenger were trapped.  Richland Fire cut the roof off of the truck to extract them from the vehicle.  Both were transported to Kadlec Medical Center by RFD paramedics.

No additional information on the incident is available at this time.  This site will be updated when more details can be released.

Man Arrested in Connection with Burglary / Car Prowl

Arrested:  Coonce, Blake D; 20 year of age male, Transient

Charges:  Possession of Stolen Property, Vehicle Prowling, Malicious Mischief, Minor in Possession of Alcohol and Driving While License Suspended (DWLS).

Synopsis:

On May 26, 2013 at about 10:00 PM Richland officers responded to a call of a vehicle prowl that had just occurred in the area of the 1700 block of Leslie Rd.  An restaurant employee who had stepped out for a break found that his vehicle had been broken into within the last 30 minutes.  He and another witness in the area identified Coonce as being the one responsible for the theft.

At about 10:30 PM Coonce was located near Columbia Center Blvd and Deschutes.  Officers interviewed him at the scene and he denied involvement in the car prowl.  Coonce was arrested and his vehicle impounded.

Coonce was also a suspect in a burglary that had happened on May 15.  During that burglary a number of DVD’s were stolen.  Coonce sold the exact same number and titled DVD’s to Hastings just after the burglary.

Coonce was booked into the Benton County jail on the above listed charges.  A search warrant on his vehicle is still pending.

For more information contact Cpt. Mike Cobb, 942-7362.

2 Arrested for Trafficking in Stolen Property

Arrested:  Manis, Jaime K; 31 year of age female, Kennewick address

Charges:  Trafficking in Stolen Property, Warrant for DWLS

Arrested:  Crouchet, Richard C; 28 year of age male, Kennewick address

Charge: Trafficking in Stolen Property

On May 6, 2013 the Richland Police Department began an investigation into stolen property being sold at Hastings.  Multiple subjects were coming into the store with hundreds of DVD’s and Blu-Ray discs, many with the same titles, some still sealed in the plastic they were shipped with.

Early in the investigation Manis was identified as a suspect.  On May 24 she and Richard Crouchet came into the Hastings store on George Washington Way with additional movies to sell.  Since January Manis had sold 137 Blu-Ray and DVD movies to Hastings.  Officers were aware that Manis had a warrant out for her arrest and were called to Hastings when she and Crouchet were inside.

Officers arrested both and seized the vehicle they had arrived in.  A search warrant served on the vehicle showed that it contained a large volume of plastic wrappers from DVD’s and Blu-Ray discs that had been removed from Wal-Mart.  Wal-Mart was contacted and video from the store confirmed both subjects had been in the business and engaged in shoplifting discs from and end cap display.

After reviewing the case with the Benton County Prosecutor’s Office a 72 hour hold was authorized to hold both subjects on Trafficking in Stolen Property charges.  Manis was also booked on a warrant for DWLS.

For additional information contact Cpt. Mike Cobb, 942-7362.

Richland Police has received information from citizens in the area of Gage Blvd/Sky Meadow/Anna/Falcon Ridge that an unknown person has been mailing fraudulent RPD Code Enforcement Nuisance Forms to residents citing to correct a nuisance (Barking Dogs). These forms are not signed by our Code Enforcement Officers and are being mailed in a non-City of Richland envelope without a return address. We have also been notified by one victim that a fraudulent notice claiming to be from Animal Control was also mailed. The individuals responsible for this are committing a felony. This release is to serve both as a warning to the offender, but also to notify citizens of the fraudulent activity. 

RCW 9A.60.040

Criminal impersonation in the first degree. 

(1) A person is guilty of criminal impersonation in the first degree if the person:

(a) Assumes a false identity and does an act in his or her assumed character with intent to defraud another or for any other unlawful purpose; or

(b) Pretends to be a representative of some person or organization or a public servant and does an act in his or her pretended capacity with intent to defraud another or for any other unlawful purpose.

(2) Criminal impersonation in the first degree is a class C felony

If you have any information regarding this incident please contact Ofc. Rick Kane at 509-942-7636 or Sgt. Ver Steeg at 509-942-7545.

Level II Sex Offender Moves to Richland

Tuff, Charles A

Name:  Tuff, Charles A
Age:  34 years of age
Description:  White male, 6'0", 230 lbs., Blonde, Blue eyes
Address:  2000 Block George Washington Way

Convictions: 
Two (2) Counts Rape of a Child 1st Degree, 5-1993, Asotin, WA
Rail to Register as a Sex Offender, 11-2012, Benton County, WA

 
Tuff recently moved to Richland and resides in the 2000 block of George Washington Way.  His victims include two minor children, male and female, under the age of 10.  Tuff is currently on Department of Corrections (DOC) supervision.  He is a "Covered Offender" under RCW 9A.44.190. He is therefore trespassed from all parks, libraries, schools and their grounds in Benton and Franklin Counties.

TUFF IS NOT WANTED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT.  TUFF IS TRESPASSED FROM ALL PARKS, LIBRARIES, SCHOOLS AND THEIR GROUNDS IN BENTON AND FRANKLIN COUNTIES.  THIS ADVISEMENT IS FOR INFORMATION ONLY. 

 

·         The treatment of sexual offenders does not guarantee they will or will not commit another   offense. 

·         This information is provided in accordance with RCW 4.24.550.  The Benton County Sheriff’s Office has no legal authority to direct where a sex offender may live.  Unless court ordered restrictions exist, the offender is constitutionally free to live wherever he chooses.

·         Citizen abuse of this information to threaten, intimidate, or harass registered sex offenders will not be tolerated.  Such abuse could end our ability to do community notifications.

·         The Sexual Assault Response Center is available 24 hours a day to provide advocacy, information, referrals, and crisis intervention for victims of sexual violence.  Please give them a call for support or information pertaining to sexual assault at 374-5391.

For additional information and safety tips regarding registered sex offenders in your area log into the Benton County Web site at www.co.benton.wa.us or contact Richland Police Department Detective Athena Clark at 509-942-7354 or email aclark@ci.richland.wa.us.

 

For additional media information, contact Cpt. Mike Cobb, 942-7362.