South-East Regional Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force

On May 12^th, 2016 Stephen J. Castilleja (27) of Prosser Washington, was arrested by investigators of the South-East Regional Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force.  Assisting agencies included Kennewick PD, Richland PD, U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. 

A search warrant was executed at Castilleja’s residence.  During the search of Castilleja’s residence, nude photographs depicting what appeared to be a minor child were located. The victim was known to Castilleja.  Castilleja is an employee of the Granger school district.  At this time there is no known correlation with the students of the Granger school district and this investigation. 

Castilleja was booked into the Benton County Jail.

The investigation is ongoing.  Please direct any questions to Lt. Chris Lee, Richland Police Department, chlee@ci.richland.wa.us or 509-554-8352.

Fraud Suspects Arrested

Arrested: 

Millan, Stevee M.; 23 year of age male; Portland OR address

Matamoro-Almaguer, Jesus E.; 30 year of age male; Portland, OR address

Charges:  Identity theft, 1^st Degree Theft

Synopsis:

On April 19, 20, 23 and 24 two males came through the Tri-Cities and used bank account numbers skimmed from local and regional gas station pumps.  The two made several thousands of dollars worth of purchases at area WalGreens and Bulington Coat Factory stores.

Investigators also believe they are actively committing similar frauds throughout the state.

On Friday May 6, 2016 the Richland Police Department learned that the suspects had checked into the Motel 6 at 1771 Fowler.  Investigators responded to the location and arrested Millan and Almaguer without incident.  A search warrant served on their motel room and vehicle recovered several pieces of evidence related to credit/debit card fraud.

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

One complication of an investigation of this type is difficulty in identifying victims. Most victims of fraud report the incident to their financial institution but not their local law enforcement agency.  This makes identification of the number of crimes and victims impossible. 

Anyone who believes that they might have been a victim of this series of crimes is encouraged to contact Detective Erik Lundquist at 509-942-7716.