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PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Dial 911 for Emergency Assistance NON-Emergency: 360-452-4545 321 E. Fifth Street / Port Angeles |
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Any information related to this crime should be reported to Port Angeles Police Department at 360-452-4545. Persons with information can also call the North Olympic Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. A reward of up to $1,000 is available for information that leads to a felony arrest and parties can remain anonymous.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
BURGLAR SENTENCED
November 2, 2012
Paul Aaron McDonald, age 30 of Port Angeles, was sentenced on October 23, 2012, to serve 50 months in State Prison. McDonald accepted a plea offer, pleading guilty to Burglary 2nd Degree. McDonald is also required to pay restitution as well as a fine.
The case began August 16, 2012, when a resident in the 800 block of East Caroline Street called to report a burglary at their residence in which several items were stolen. Initial investigation revealed a male suspect was seen fleeing the scene of the burglary and was observed by witnesses entering Olympic Medical Center. Shortly thereafter, the male got into a taxicab, fleeing the scene. McDonald was identified by witnesses as the male suspect. A search warrant at McDonald's registered residence revealed evidence further linking McDonald to the burglary. Probable Cause was also developed for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
On August 20, 2012, McDonald was arrested and booked into the Clallam County Jail for Residential Burglary, Burglary 2nd Degree, Theft 2nd Degree, Theft 3rd Degree, and Failure to Register as a Sex Offender and has been incarcerated since that date.
Burglary Second Degree is a Class B Felony: (1) A person is guilty of burglary in the second degree if, with intent to commit a crime against a person or property therein, he or she enters or remains unlawfully in a building other than a vehicle or a dwelling.
Detective Josh Powless
Phone: 360-417-4931
Email: jpowless@cityofpa.us
UPDATE - OPNET DRUG CASES
December 21, 2012
Rebecca M. (Becki) Daarud, age 30, of Port Angeles , was sentenced on December 24, 2012, (CORRECTION December 4, 2012) to serve 24 months probation as a result of her plea of guilty to three counts of Delivery of Methamphetamine. Daarud agreed to plead guilty to Delivering Methamphetamine to OPNET on three separate occasions in exchange for the dismissal of other charges including Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine and Possession with Intent to Deliver Marijuana.
Daarud's co-defendant, Phil Graham, age 52, also of Port Angeles, was sentenced on October 17, 2012, to serve 24 months probation after he pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine.
Lawrence R. (Russ) Moorman, age 49 , was located during the early morning hours of December 20, 2012, east of Sequim and arrested by a Clallam County Sheriff's Deputy after OPNET developed probable cause to believe Moorman delivered methamphetamine to OPNET on four separate occasions between March and August of 2012. Moorman's case is being reviewed by the Clallam County Prosecutor and charges are anticipated. OPNET's investigation indicated the Moorman delivered about 100 grams of methamphetamine to an informant working for OPNET.
"These three cases are good examples of OPNET operations that involve both teamwork with other agencies in the area, and investigative techniques that require officers to wear plain clothes and drive standard vehicles."
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November 16, 2012
Trina K. Mills, age 53 of Port Angeles, was sentenced to serve 24 months state probation after she plead guilty to Delivery of a Controlled Substance on October 31, 2012, in Clallam County Superior Court.
The guilty plea is a result of an OPNET investigation that occurred on May 8, 2012. During the investigation OPNET developed probable cause to believe that Mills unlawfully delivered prescription medication to another suspect, who in turn unlawfully delivered the medication to an informant working for OPNET.
The investigation on May 8, 2012, was just one small part of a much larger investigation that resulted in the arrests of seven people in the Port Angeles and Sequim areas on June 8, 2012. Mills was the fifth suspect to plead guilty in the series of seven. Another result of the Mills investigation was the seizure of Mills car by OPNET after OPNET developed probable cause to believe that Mills used her car to transport and unlawfully deliver controlled substances.
Corey E. Borden, age 23 of Clallam County , was sentenced on October 30, 2012, to 24 months state probation. Borden's sentence was a result of his guilty plea on October 9, 2012 to Delivery of a Controlled Substance. Borden's plea was a result of an OPNET investigation on January 20, 2011, during which OPNET developed probable cause to believe that Borden unlawfully delivered prescription medication to an informant working for OPNET.
Phillip A. Graham, age 52 of Port Angeles, was sentenced on October 30, 2012, to serve 24 months state probation. Graham's sentencing follows his October 17, , 2012, guilty plea to Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Deliver in Clallam County Superior Court.
Graham's plea follows his arrest by OPNET during the execution of a search warrant at a residence in the 800 block of South Peabody Street on July 31, 2012. While searching Graham's home OPNET located over two ounces of methamphetamine. “That quantity of methamphetamine could have been sold for over two thousand dollars, if sold by the ounce, or it could have been sold for up to $6,000.00 if sold by the gram,” OPNET Detective Sergeant Jason Viada.
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November 1, 2012
Joseph I. Koroshes, age 45, of Port Angeles, was sentenced on October 17, 2012, to serve 20 months in State Prison. Koroshes' sentencing is a result of a guilty plea the same day to three counts of Delivery of Methamphetamine. Koroshes delivered methamphetamine to OPNET on three occasions between March and July of 2010. Koroshes arrested later in a cooperative operation between OPNET and the Port Angeles Police Department when a search warrant was served at Koroshes home near Lincoln Park. “OPNET now has fewer than 30 cases making their way through the court system. However, as a result of several ongoing investigations many more arrests are anticipated.”
Paul J. Warrick Jr., age 57, of Sequim was sentenced in Clallam County Superior Court on October 25, 2012, to serve 24 months State probation. Warrick's sentencing is a result of a guilty plea to two counts of Delivery of a Controlled Substance on October 10, 2012. Warrick was one of seven suspects who sold prescription medication to OPNET during an investigation earlier this year. Warrick pled guilty to selling controlled substances to OPNET on May 2, 2012, and May 23, 2012. Charges of selling controlled substances to OPNET on June 1, 2012 were dismissed as part of an agreement.
Another result of the case was seizure and forfeiture of three firearms found in Warrick's home when OPNET served a search warrant there during the investigation.
Kelly F. Bushnell, also known as Kelly Briggs , age 49, of Port Angeles was sentenced in Clallam County Superior Court on October 23, 2012, to serve 24 months of State probation. Bushnell's sentencing was a result of a guilty plea on September 24, 2012, to Delivery of Methamphetamine and Possession of Methamphetamine. Bushnell's case began on April 5, 2011, when Bushnell sold methamphetamine to OPNET Bushnell was later arrested on September 23, 2011.
Joseph J. “Joe” Neske, age 34, of Clallam County, was sentenced on October 26, 2012, to serve 70 months in Federal prison. Neske's release from prison will be followed by four years of federal probation. Neske's sentencing is a result of his guilty plea in Federal Court on August 3, 2012, to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Neske was part of an OPNET investigation into a heroin trafficking organization. OPNET's investigation began in Port Angeles during the summer of 2011. OPNET worked together with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and one result was Neske's guilty plea. “OPNET is a team of investigators from city, county, state, and federal agencies. People involved in narcotics trafficking on the Olympic Peninsula can be prosecuted in state court and/or federal court.”
JASON X. VIADA, OPNET Detective Sergeant
Phone: 360-565-7350
Email: jviada@cityofpa.us
INTERSTATE SEX OFFENDER ARRESTED & INDICTED
Posted October 30, 2012 -
On September 9, 2012, at approximately 3:50 p.m., the Port Angeles Police Department was notified that a subject being sought by the US Marshal's Pacific Northwest Fugitive Apprehension Task Force was presently inside a coffee house at the 400 block of South Lincoln Avenue. Officers Dan Morse, Sky Sexton, and Shane Martin responded. They found an individual matching the description of Daniel Jay Saggese seated inside the coffee house. Officers had previously determined that Saggese had felony arrest warrants out of New York State that included “Sexual Abuse 1” and “Sex Offender/ Failure to Register”.
Investigators from the US Marshal's Fugitive Task Force had previously contacted the Port Angeles Police Department with photos and other information on Saggese indicating he was in Port Angeles. The history provided officers indicated Saggese had a history of violence and weapons violations.
When PAPD Officers contacted Saggese on September 9, he provided what was later determined to be false identification in another name. However when Officer Morse was satisfied the subject was in fact Daniel Saggese, the officer attempted to take him into custody. Saggese actively resisted arrest and attempted to escape, forcing officers to deploy Tasers and engaged in open-handed restraint techniques. Officers fired their Tasers several times as Saggese fled into an alley. Saggese pulled the Taser wires from his clothing and actively fought to escape from the officers. Saggese was ultimately stopped by Officer Shane Martin in the alley. The three officers were thus able to overcome his resistance and he was taken into custody. During the search of his person incident to arrest officers found a can of “Halt” pepper spray on his person.
Daniel Saggese was booked into the Clallam county jail on the outstanding felony warrants and a fresh charge of “obstructing peace officers”. He was eventually remanded to the custody of the US Marshal and transported to a federal holding facility near Tacoma. In late September he was indicted by the Federal Grant Jury for the Western District of Washington. The Grand Jury issued a true bill for violation of one count of Title 18 United States Code Section 2250. 18 USC 2250 is sometimes called the Adam Walsh Act. It makes it a federal felony for a convicted sex offender to travel in interstate commerce, cross state lines, and fail to register as a sex offender.
Saggese is pending trial or plea agreement. Should he be found guilty, he faces a mandatory federal jail sentence of 27 to 36 months. The Port Angeles Police Department very much appreciates the call from an alert citizen at the coffee house that led to Saggese's capture.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
SENTENCING IN DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CASE
Dale Jackson Purser, age 27 of Port Angeles, was sentenced on October 23, 2012, to serve 20 years in State Prison for multiple domestic violence related offenses. Purser was found guilty by a jury of Assault 1st degree Domestic Violence, Assault 2nd degree Domestic Violence, Felony Harassment, and two counts of Witness Intimidation.
The case began September 23, 2011, when a woman called 911 to report she had been assaulted and her children had been threatened. The woman was treated for life-threatening injuries. The suspect was identified as Purser and appeared to have fled the residence where the assault had occurred. The children were located and found to be safe with a family friend. Purser was located and arrested on September 24, 2011, and has been incarcerated since that date.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The Port Angeles Police Department recognizes the serious nature of domestic violence crimes in our community and encourages victims to contact the Police Department. There are community resources available to assist victims of domestic violence and their children. If you need assistance or have questions about resources please contact the Police Department or Healthy Families.
A person is guilty of assault in the first degree if he or she, with intent to inflict great bodily harm, assaults another and inflicts great bodily harm. Great bodily harm means bodily injury which creates a probability of death, or which causes significant serious permanent disfigurement, or which causes a significant permanent loss or impairment of the function of any bodily part or organ.
Assault 1st degree is a Class A felony.
1) A person is guilty of assault in the second degree if he or she, under circumstances not amounting to assault in the first degree:
(a) Intentionally assaults another and thereby recklessly inflicts substantial bodily harm; or
(b) Intentionally and unlawfully causes substantial bodily harm to an unborn quick child by intentionally and unlawfully inflicting any injury upon the mother of such child; or
(c) Assaults another with a deadly weapon; or
(d) With intent to inflict bodily harm, administers to or causes to be taken by another, poison or any other destructive or noxious substance; or
(e) With intent to commit a felony, assaults another; or
(f) Knowingly inflicts bodily harm which by design causes such pain or agony as to be the equivalent of that produced by torture; or
(g) Assaults another by strangulation or suffocation.
Assault 2nd degree is a Class B felony
Port Angeles Police Department
Detective Kori Malone
(360) 417-4941
Email: kmalone@cityofpa.us
"COMPRESSION BRAKE" PATROL EMPHASIS
The Port Angeles Police Department and the Washington State Patrol will be engaged in emphasis patrols on the Tumwater Truck Route during the upcoming months. Of particular concern are trucks driving down the Truck Route and using “un-muffled” compression brakes.
The Revised Code of Washington requires vehicles operated on public roads with a gross vehicle weight of 10,001 pounds or more and equipped with a compression brake device to also be equipped with an operational muffler and exhaust system to prevent excess noise. The monetary penalty for violation of this section is $250.00 fine for the first violation, a $500.00 fine for a second violation, and a $750.00 fine for each subsequent violation.
The Port Angeles Police Department is responding to citizen complaints regarding the noise produced by use of un-muffled air brakes by trucks as they descend the Tumwater Truck Route. Police Officers will be assisted by Troopers from the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division. Patrol emphasis will be directed at various times of the day and evening.
RCW 46.37.395 Compression brakes (jake brakes).
(1) This section applies to all motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 kilograms or more (10,001 pounds or more), registered and domiciled in Washington state, operated on public roads and equipped with engine compression brake devices. An engine compression brake device is any device that uses the engine and transmission to impede the forward motion of the motor vehicle by compression of the engine.
(2) The driver of a motor vehicle equipped with a device that uses the compression of the motor vehicle engine shall not use the device unless: The motor vehicle is equipped with an operational muffler and exhaust system to prevent excess noise. A muffler is part of an engine exhaust system which acts as a noise dissipative device. A turbocharger is not permitted to be used as a muffler or a noise dissipative device.
(3) The monetary penalty for violating subsection (2) of this section is: (a) Two hundred fifty dollars for the first violation; (b) five hundred dollars for the second violation; and (c) seven hundred fifty dollars for each violation thereafter.
(4) All medium and heavy trucks must comply with federal code 205 - transportation equipment noise emission controls, subpart B.
(5) Nothing in this section prohibits a local jurisdiction from implementing an ordinance that is more restrictive than the state law and Washington state patrol rules regarding the use of compression brakes.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
POLICE INVESTIGATE TWO "SMASH AND GRAB" COMMERCIAL BURGLARIES
On October 1, 2012, at approximately 2:35 AM, Port Angeles Police Officers responded to a business on the 600 block of E 1 st St. Officers found that a burglary had just occurred. The owner later estimated that approximately $5,000 in jewelry was taken. Investigation indicates that the suspects were inside the building less than 20 seconds. The investigation also shows that the suspects smashed the glass door with a hatchet and then went right to the jewelry case (which they also smashed with the hatchet).
Suspect #1 – Taller, black "hoodie", red bandana (used as face mask), dark blue gloves, black pants, and dark colored shoes.
Suspect #2 – Shorter, red/white plaid “hoodie”, unknown face mask, white t-shirt, light blue gloves, gray sweatpants, and white shoes.
On October 8, 2012, at approximately 4:35 AM, Port Angeles Police Officers responded to a business on the 100 block of W. 1 st Street. It appeared to officers that the suspects broke a window on the east side of the building and then entered the building. The investigation also showed, that while inside, suspects broke several display cases and took a large amount of jewelry (mostly men's watches). It appears a pick hammer was used to break the glass. Preliminary estimates indicate several thousand dollars worth of jewelry was taken. An older (possibly 70's model) white Chevrolet single cab pickup with a canopy was seen leaving the area.
The MO for the October 8 th burglary is much like the October 1 st burglary. Officers and detectives will continue to examine available video footage and physical evidence, and follow up on leads. Person with information on either case are asked to call the Port Angeles Police Department at 360-452-4545.
Persons with information can also call the North Olympic Crime Stoppers. This program provides law enforcement with information regarding specific crimes. It also pays a reward of up to $1000 for information that leads to any arrest with the filing of felony charges. Persons calling in tips do not have to give their name and may remain anonymous if they wish. The 24-hour toll free phone number for North Olympic Crime Stoppers is 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Shane Martin / Police Officer
360-452-4545
smartin@cityofpa.us
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Dan Morse / Police Officer
360-452-4545
Email: dmorse@cityofpa.us
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
POLICE INVESTIGATE "DRIVE BY SHOOTING" AT TWO BANKS
On the morning of October 9, 2012, Port Angeles Police Officers and Detectives were called to investigate the apparent “drive by shooting” at two local bank buildings. The investigation to date indicates that sometime between the afternoon of October 6, 2012 and the morning October 8, 2012, two banks in downtown Port Angeles (on 1600 block East Front St and on the 900 block East Front Street) suffered single gunshots that struck and entered their respective buildings. The rounds caused minimal damage and appear to have come from the adjacent street. There is no indication that the buildings were occupied at the time of shootings and no motive has been established.
Individuals with information are asked to call the Port Angeles Police Department at 360-452- 4545. Persons with information can also call the North Olympic Crime Stoppers. This program provides law enforcement with information regarding specific crimes. It also pays a reward of up to $1000 for information that leads to any arrest with the filing of felony charges. Persons calling in tips do not have to give their name and may remain anonymous if they wish. The 24-hour toll free phone number for North Olympic Crime Stoppers is 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Port Angeles Police Department
David Dombrowski
Patrol Corporal
60-452-4545
ddombrowski@cityofpa.us
Port Angeles Police Department
Detective Kevin Spencer
Phone: 360-417-4946
Email: kspencer@cityofpa.us
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
OPNET CASE UPDATES
SENTENCING IN OPNET CASE
Jonathan Eugene Henderson, age 40, of Port Angeles was sentenced to serve 20 months in State Prison. Henderson pled guilty to Delivery of a Controlled Substance in Clallam County Superior Court on September 19, 2012. That guilty plea was a result of an OPNET investigation during which OPNET purchased about 1.5 grams of heroin for $125.00 from Henderson on August 4 , 2011 in Port Angeles. “Other OPNET defendants have received lesser sentences for similar offenses. Henderson's 20 month sentence is due in part to Henderson's extensive criminal history that includes Violation of the Uniform Controlled Substance Act, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Possession of Stolen Property, Burglary, and Hit & Run with Injury.” Henderson's prison sentence will be followed by 20 months of state probation.
SENTENCING IN OPNET CASE
Kayla Kristine Howell, age 21, of Port Angeles was sentenced to serve 24 months State Probation after she pled guilty to two counts of Delivery of a Controlled Substance on August 9, 2012 in Clallam County Superior Court. Howell's guilty plea is a result of an OPNET investigation during which OPNET purchased prescription medication from Howell on four separate days in April and May of 2012. Howell pled guilty to unlawfully delivering Suboxone to OPNET on April 18 and April 23, 2012. Charges resulting from the deliveries of Oxycodone on April 25 and May 3, 2012 were dismissed as part of the plea agreement. “Howell is one of seven defendants that were arrested by OPNET on June 8, 2012 during the investigation of unlawful delivery of prescription medication in Port Angeles and Sequim.”
SENTENCING IN OPNET CASE
Cheryl Ann Possinger, age 53, of Port Angeles was sentenced to 24 months State Probation after she pled guilty to two counts of Delivery of a Controlled Substance in Clallam County Superior Court on August 28, 2012. Possinger's plea and sentence are results of an OPNET investigation into the unlawful delivery of prescription medication in Port Angeles and Sequim during the spring of 2012. Possinger delivered Oxycodone to OPNET on May 8 and May 9, 2012. Possinger was one of seven suspects arrested by OPNET on June 8, 2012. “OPNET currently has about three dozen cases that are methodically making their way through our federal and state court systems. In addition OPNET continues to investigate a series of open cases, and several more arrests are anticipated.”
JASON X. VIADA, OPNET Detective Sergeant
Phone: 360-565-7350
Email: jviada@cityofpa.us
POLICE SEEK DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SUSPECT
January 29, 2013 - Update
Port Angeles Police Officers investigating a domestic violence case in early October 2012, determined it was likely that suspect Andrew David Nilsson had left the area and was possibly in Southern California. His arrest warrant was listed in the national database (NCIC) as a possibly armed and dangerous felony fugitive. The U.S. Marshal's Service Pacific Northwest Fugitive Task Force was asked to assist in locating and arresting Nilsson.
Nilsson was sought on multiple charges, including unlawful imprisonment, felony harassment, second degree assault, 4 th degree assault and 3 rd degree theft. All of the charges are related to domestic violence and from a case that began on September 29, 2012, in Port Angeles. Nilsson was reported to be suffering from paranoia and mental issues, and possibly armed with an AK-47 rifle.
In early November 2012, Nilsson was located and arrested in Los Angeles County. After the extradition process he was removed from California by the US Marshal's Service and returned to the Clallam County Jail. Nilsson appeared in Clallam County Superior Court on January 25, 2013, and continues to be held in the Clallam County Jail. Arraignment is set for February 1, 2013, in Clallam County Superior Court.
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October 24, 2012 - UPDATE
Felony charges against Nilsson have been filed in Clallam County Superior Court. His arrest warrant is listed in the national database (NCIC) and continues to be a sought after felony fugitive. He should be considered armed and potentially dangerous. Persons with knowledge of his whereabouts should call 911 immediately. Persons with information as the whereabouts who wish to remain anonymous can also call North Olympic Crime Stoppers. Information received that leads to a felony arrest can result in a $1000 cash reward.
On October 3, 2012, at approximately 1:00 PM Port Angeles Police Officers served a search warrant at a residence on the 200 block of East 8 th Street. Officers were seeking to take into custody Andrew David Nilsson, aka Andrew Stanger (37 yrs old and from Port Angeles).
Nilsson is being sought on multiple charges, including unlawful imprisonment, felony harassment, second degree assault, 4 th degree assault and 3 rd degree theft. All these charges are related to domestic violence
and from a case that began on September 29 2012 in Port Angeles.
During the warrant service Port Angeles officers were assisted by agents from the US Border Patrol and Office of Air and Marine. Nilsson was not located but officers did find items of a suspicious nature that dictated the response of the Washington State Patrol (WSP) Bomb Unit. Items were examined and one small explosive device was located. This item was taken by WSP bomb technicians. Officers and agents remained at the residence until WSP troopers and technicians ruled out any additional explosive devices.
Nilsson is a white male, 5-10/190, with brown hair and blue eyes. There is a felony arrest warrant for Nilsson in the Washington Crime Information Center and the National Crime Information databases. Port Angeles officers also have probable cause to arrest Nilsson on multiple felony and misdemeanor charges. He is believed to be driving a white 1990 Honda Prelude, WA tags AHK8429. Nilsson is reportedly suffering from paranoia and mental issues, and may be armed with an AK-47 rifle. Investigating officers consider him likely to be armed and potentially dangerous. Area law enforcement agencies have been notified to be on the lookout for Nilsson and his vehicle. Persons in contact with Nilsson or aware of his location should call 911 immediately.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Patrol Sgt. Barb McFall
Phone: 360-452-4545 / 360-912-0034
Email: bmcfall@cityofpa.us
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
JOINT AGENCY NEWS RELEASE
October 2, 2012
Clallam County Sheriff's Office, William L. Benedict, Sheriff / Port Angeles Police Dept., Terry Gallagher, Chief of Police
On October 1, 2012, just after 3:00 a.m., emergency units were dispatched to an alley east of Peabody St. in Port Angeles to a report of a downed bicycle and rider. On their arrival, Officers Dave Dombrowski and Brian Stamon of the Port Angeles Police Dept. and Deputy Brian Knutson of the Clallam County Sheriff's Office found a 22-year old male on the ground and unresponsive. The officers checked and found the victim was not breathing and had no pulse. The officers immediately began CPR and, as part of their training, utilized an automatic external defibrillator (or AED) device.
The AED is an electronic device that, once applied to the patient, can detect ventricular fibrillation and/or other "shockable" and lethal cardiac rhythms. The AED also instructs the responder to start or continue CPR. And, it also delivers a "shock" (when indicated) which can eliminate a lethal cardiac rhythm and help restart a life-sustaining heartbeat in a patient. The AED was successfully applied to this patient and officers continued the CPR until Port Angeles Fire Department paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) arrived. The Fire Dept. paramedics and EMTs initated advanced cardiac care and successfully resuscitated the patient.
The young man was transported to the Olympic Medical Center by Fire Dept. personnel and his condition was stabilized. The man remains hospitalized and his current condition is not known.
The AED device was one of a series that was provided to the Clallam County Sheriff's Office, the Port Angeles Police Department, and the Sequim Police Department in 2010 and 2011 by the Olympic Medical Center Foundation. This is part of an ongoing effort to equip all the law enforcement vehicles in Clallam County with AED devices. This is at least the fourth instance in our area where an AED has been used successfully by first responding law enforcement officers and directly led to (or strongly contributed to) the saving of a human life. The availability of AED devices carried by law enforcement officers further improves the chances of a successful patient outcome and increases the potential for success in the advanced cardiac life support measures employed by field paramedics.
Contact:
Ron Cameron -
Chief Criminal Deputy, Clallam County Sheriff's Office
360-452-2570
rcameron@co.clallam.wa.us
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
OPNET CASE UPDATES
September 21, 2012
SENTENCING IN OPNET CASE
John E. Jacobson, age 57, of Clallam County, was sentenced on August 23, 2012, to serve 33.75 months total confinement after pleading guilty to Solicitation to Commit Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Methamphetamine, in Clallam County Superior Court. Jacobson's sentencing is a result of an OPNET investigation that occurred on December of 2010 in the Forks area.
SENTENCING IN OPNET CASE
Allen L. Curtis, age 39, of Forks was sentenced on August 23, 2012, to 45 months confinement after he pled guilty to Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Methamphetamine, in Clallam County Superior Court. The sentencing was a result of an OPNET investigation that occurred in the Forks area between December of 2010 and January of 2011.
SUSPECT APPREHENDED IN OPNET CASE
Brittany E. Johnson, age 21, of Port Angeles was booked into the Clallam County Jail on for a $5,000.00 Superior Court Warrant at about 3:30 AM on September 1, 2012, after she was apprehended by the Port Angeles Police Department. A warrant of arrest was issued after Johnson was charged in an OPNET case. That investigation occurred in April of 2011. During the investigation, OPNET purchased Suboxone, a controlled substance, three times. OPNET developed probable cause to believe Johnson set up the first buy, and then actually sold the drugs to OPNET during the second and third buys. OPNET purchased a total of 8 Suboxone strips for $20.00 each. An accomplice in the case, Seth R. Taylor, age 23, also of Port Angeles, has been charged in the case as well.
GUILTY PLEA IN OPNET CASE
Leroy Hampton, age 32, of Port Angeles pled guilty on August 28, 2012, to Delivery of a Controlled Substance in Clallam County Superior Court. Hampton was sentenced to serve 24 months probation. Hampton's guilty plea is a result of an OPNET investigation occurring in August of 2011 when Hampton sold about .32 grams of methamphetamine to OPNET for $40.00.
CHARGES FILED IN OPNET CASE
Preston J. Smith, age 40, of Clallam County, was charged with Possession of Heroin and Sharon L. Knotek, age 46, also of Clallam County, was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine. Both charges were filed in Clallam County Superior Court on August 23, 2012. The charges are a result of an OPNET investigation occurring in the 1600 block of Blue Mountain Road in April of 2010. On that day, OPNET and WSP apprehended Smith after a brief pursuit. Smith was arrested pursuant to five arrest warrants issued in Clallam County and Jefferson County. OPNET then served a search warrant at Smith's home. After examinations of the evidence had been completed and the case had been reviewed by the Clallam County Prosecutor, Smith and Knotek were charged.
JASON X. VIADA, OPNET Detective Sergeant
Phone: 360-565-7350
Email: jviada@cityofpa.us
City Receives Award for City-Wide Wireless Connectivity
September 13, 2012 - The City of Port Angeles is the recipient of the 2012 Community Broadband Wireless Network of the Year award for planning and deploying an innovative, multi-use, multi-sectoral wireless network to serve public safety, consumers, local government and tribal needs.
The City will officially receive this honor on September 28, 2012, in New Orleans, LA from the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA) at their annual convention. NATOA honors are awarded to exceptional leaders and innovative programs that champion community interests and broadband deployment in local communities nationwide. This award recognizes the City's efforts in creating Metro-Net, the first city-wide wireless network in the state of Washington, and the one of the only wireless networks to share an infrastructure with a separate first-responder public safety network.
Metro-Net will be launched publicly at a press event on October 8, 2012, at 10:00 a.m. PST at The Gateway Plaza, located at 125 E. Front Street, Port Angeles, Washington. Metro-Net will bring mobile connectivity to everyone within the Port Angeles City limits, starting at just $4.95 a month and with a free hour of wireless every day.
Said, City Manager, Dan McKeen, “We worked hard to create a network that is affordable to all users, available everywhere, and with revenue-sharing to keep public investment low. We're happy to report this hard work has paid off, as validated by NATOA.”.......
SUSPECT SENTENCED IN OPNET COCAINE CASE
August 16, 2012 -
Robert L. Stone, age 26, of Port Angeles, was transported from the Clallam County Jail to State Prison on August 15, 2012, to serve a 20-month sentence. Stone's prison time will be followed by 20 months state probation.
Stone pled guilty on August 10, 2012, to two counts of Cocaine Delivery, and was sentenced the same day. Stone's guilty plea was the result of an OPNET investigation occurring in January 2010. During the investigation, OPNET purchased cocaine from Stone on four separate occasions. Then in February 2010, OPNET arrested Stone in an apartment near 9 th and “C” in Port Angeles.
“Nearly all of OPNET's primary focus has been, and will continue to be, unlawful delivery of methamphetamine, heroin, and prescription medication such as oxycodone. However, OPNET will certainly investigate cocaine cases when they are presented to us.”
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GUILTY PLEA IN FEDERAL COURT
Joseph J. “Joe” Neske , age 34, of Clallam County, pled guilty in Federal Court on August 3, 2012, to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Neske was part of an OPNET investigation into a heroin trafficking organization. OPNET's investigation began in Port Angeles during the summer of 2011. OPNET worked together with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and one result was Neske's guilty plea. This case serves as a good example of OPNET working together with other law enforcement agencies when drug trafficking impacts not only our neighborhoods, but areas beyond the north Olympic Peninsula as well.
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CHARGES FILED IN OPNET METHAMPHETAMINE CASES
Jacob D. Carter , age 20, of Port Angeles was charged on July 30, 2012, with three counts of Delivery of a Controlled Substance in Clallam County Superior Court. Carter was arrested by OPNET in Port Angeles on July 25, 2012. The arrest was based on probable cause that Carter delivered methamphetamine to OPNET on three separate occasions during June and July of 2011.
The Carter case is just one small part of a much larger ongoing methamphetamine investigation. Arrests like this serve as examples of how people who sell illegal drugs to OPNET do not become aware of it until over a year later at the time they are arrested.
Phillip A. Graham , age 53, of Port Angeles was charged with Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine, Possession with Intent to Deliver Marijuana, and Unlawful Use of a Building for Drug Purposes. Rebecca M. Daarud, age 29, also of Port Angeles, was charged with three Counts of Delivery of Methamphetamine, Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine, and Possession with Intent to Deliver Marijuana. The charges were filed on August 3, 2012, and are the results of arrests made by OPNET during the service of a search warrant on July 31, 2012, at a home near 9 th and Peabody in Port Angeles.
These arrests are the results of a recent OPNET investigation during which OPNET purchased methamphetamine on at least three occasions at that location. During the searches of the home, trailer, and shop OPNET recovered a substantial quantity of methamphetamine, firearms, and a bullet-proof vest.
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GUILTY PLEA IN OPNET CASE
Dalasa “Lacy” Lundgren , age 41, of Port Angeles pled guilty on July 18, 2012, to Delivery of a Controlled Substance. Lundgren was sentenced on July 31, 2012, to serve 24 months state probation. Lundgren's case was part of a much larger investigation that involved charges filed in Clallam County Superior Court against seven suspects. The investigation involved several unlawful deliveries of controlled substances, such as Oxycodone, to OPNET in the spring of 2012.
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SUSPECT SENTENCED IN OPNET CASE
Cheryl King , age 53, of Port Angeles, was sentenced on July 31, 2012, to spend 20 months in state prison. King recently pled guilty in Clallam County Superior Court to two counts of Delivery of Heroin. The guilty plea was a result of King's case, which began in the summer of 2011, when OPNET purchased heroin from King on at least four separate occasions. King was then arrested by OPNET in January of 2012, and charged with four counts of Delivery of Heroin within 1000 feet of a School Bus Stop. King was out of jail pending court proceedings on June 21. OPNET Detectives were in Superior Court the day when King failed to appear, and a Judge issued a warrant for the arrest of King. OPNET Detectives then immediately left the courthouse, located King, and arrested her. King was then booked into the Clallam County Jail.
JASON X. VIADA, OPNET Detective Sergeant
Phone: 360-565-7350
Email: jviada@cityofpa.us
CHILD RAPE SUSPECT ARRESTED
On July 23, 2012, Dwayne Aaron Marcum, age 39, was arrested for Possession of Depictions of a Minor Engaged in Sexually Explicit Conduct.
The case began when a report was made regarding found property located in the woods in west Port Angeles on July 20 th . The responding officer located child pornography in the found property and developed a suspect from information at the scene.
Port Angeles Detectives developed further evidence during the course of the investigation and conducted interviews. A specific victim was identified. Additional charges of Rape of A Child and Child Molestation are in process.
Marcum remains in custody pending his next court appearance. The investigation is still active.
Anyone who may have information regarding this suspect is encouraged to contact the detectives listed in this press release.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Detective Sergeant Tyler Peninger
Phone: 360-417-4957
Email: tpeninge@cityofpa.us
Port Angeles Police Department
Detective Kori Malone
(360) 417-4941
Email: kmalone@cityofpa.us
Port Angeles Police Department
Detective Kevin Spencer
Phone: 360-417-4946
Email: kspencer@cityofpa.us
ADVISORY
This information is being forwarded by the Port Angeles Police Department as a courtesy and in cooperation with the Clallam County Sheriff's Department.
Advisory: Assault on Olympic Discovery Trail -
Information requested regarding knife found at scene
Clallam County Sheriff's Office is requesting information from the public regarding this knife which was found at the scene of the Assault on the Olympic Discovery Trail. The assault occurred on July 21, 2012 in the area of E. Runnion Road.
Click photo to view larger image.
Anyone with information is asked to call Det. Tom Reyes at 360-417-2372 or Dispatch at 360-417-2459.
Contact Information:
CLALLAM COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
Det. Tom Reyes
Detectives
360-417-2372
treyes@co.clallam.wa.us
OPNET UPDATES
July 18, 2012
GUILTY PLEA IN OPNET CASE
Cheryl King, age 53, of Port Angeles, pled guilty to two counts of Delivery of Heroin on July 11, 2012 in Clallam County Superior Court. The guilty plea was a result of King's case, which began in the summer of 2011, when OPNET purchased heroin from King on at least four separate occasions. King was then arrested by OPNET in January of 2012, and charged with four counts of Delivery of Heroin within 1000 feet of a School Bus Stop. King was out of jail pending court proceedings on June 21. OPNET Detectives were in Superior Court the day when King failed to appear, and a Judge issued a warrant for the arrest of King. OPNET Detectives then immediately left the courthouse, located King, and arrested her. King was then booked into the Clallam County Jail.
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SUSPECT SENTENCED IN OPNET CASE
Ryan J. Charles-Elofson, age 23, of Clallam County was sentenced on July 11, 2012, in Clallam County Superior Court. July's sentencing was a result of a June hearing, during which Charles-Elofson pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine and Unlawful Possession of a Loaded Shotgun in a Motor Vehicle. Charles-Elofson was sentenced to 24 months probation and 90 days in jail for the offenses.
Charles-Elofson's case began in March of 2011, when OPNET served a search warrant at a home near the intersection of 11th and Laurel in Port Angeles. During the operation Charles-Elofson arrived at the residence in a vehicle transporting methamphetamine for delivery and a loaded shotgun.
"OPNET's primary mission is drug trafficking organizations. However, OPNET will also intervene when lower level drug houses cause problems in our neighborhoods."
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FEDERAL GRAND JURY HEARS RODE CASE
On July 12, 2012, James G. "Chipper" Rode, age 46, of Sekiu, appeared before a Federal Grand Jury for the Western District of Washington. After reviewing Rode's case, the Grand Jury issued a true bill, which formally documents that the Grand Jury has heard sufficient evidence from the prosecution to believe Rode probably committed violations of Federal firearms and narcotics laws and Rode should be indicted. Rode was remanded to the continued custody of the United States Marshal pending further proceedings. Such proceedings can include a formal indictment signed by a Federal Judge.
Rode's case is the result of an OPNET case during which OPNET purchased narcotics from Rode on five separate occasions during February and March of 2012 in the west end areas of Clallam County. OPNET ultimately served a search warrant at Rode's home in Sekiu, where Rode was arrested and several firearms were recovered along with other evidence.
"Rode's case is an example of criminal acts that simultaneously violate both State and Federal law."
JASON X. VIADA, OPNET Detective Sergeant
Phone: 360-565-7350
Email: jviada@cityofpa.us
FUGITIVE ARRESTED BY OPNET
June 28, 2012 - James G. "Chipper" Rode, age 46, of Sekiu was arrested in Port Angeles on Thursday June 28, 2012 by OPNET Detectives for a Federal Arrest Warrant that was issued on June 20.
Rode's case began in early 2012 when Rode sold controlled substances to OPNET at five separate occasions. Then, in March of 2012 OPNET and other agencies served a search warrant at Rode's residence and arrested Rode, who was booked into the Clallam County Jail and charged with several felony violations of Washington State Law including narcotics and firearms violations.
As Rode's case progressed through the Clallam County court system, OPNET also sought federal firearms charges against Rode. On June 20. a federal agent assigned to OPNET obtained the federal warrant for the arrest of Rode for violation of Title 18 of the United States Code, specifically "Felon in Possession of a Firearm - Armed Career Criminal."
According to court records, Rode has been previously convicted of 27 felonies. Additional Sheriff's records indicate that Rode is a Level 3, (High Risk to Re-Offend) Sex Offender.
"OPNET is a pro-active regional team of city, county, state, and federal officers. many or our cases involve suspects who violate not only the laws of the State of Washington, but also the laws of the United States of America."
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FUGITIVE APPREHENDED BY OPNET
June 28, 2012 - Cheryl A. King, age 52, of Port Angeles was arrested by OPNET Detectives on Thursday June 21, 2012 in Port Angeles pursuant to an arrest warrant that was issued that same day by a Superior Court Judge.
King's case began in the summer of 2011 when OPNET purchased heroin from King on at least four separate occasions. King was then arrested by OPNET in January of 2012 and charged with four counts of Delivery of Heroin within 1000 feet of a School Bus Stop. King was out of jail pending court proceedings on June 21. OPNET Detectives were in Superior Court that day when King failed to appear, and a Judge issued a warrant for the arrest of King. OPNET Detectives then immediately left the court house, located King, and arrested her. King was then booked into the Clallam County Jail, where she remains.
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CHARGES FILED IN OPNET CASES
June 27, 2012 - Christopher G. Kardonsky, age 21, and Corey E. Borden, age 22, both of Clallam County have been summoned to appear in Clallam County Superior Court on July 13, 2012 at 9:00 AM to answer to charges of Delivery of a Controlled Substance. The charges, which have been prepared by the Clallam County Prosecutor, are the results of an OPNET investigation that occurred in 2011. During that investigation OPNET developed probable cause to believe that Kardonsky and Borden delivered controlled substances to OPNET.
"There are still several people on the North Olympic Peninsula who are not yet aware that they have delivered controlled substances to OPNET. More charges are anticipated."
JASON X. VIADA, OPNET Detective Sergeant
Phone: 360-565-7350
Email: jviada@cityofpa.us
BURGLARY SUSPECT & FUGITIVE ARRESTED
On July 2, 2012, at approximately 12:45 p.m., Port Angeles Department Officers and Detectives, OPNET Detectives, and a Sequim Police Department Detective served a search warrant at a residence on the 800 block of East 5 th Street in Port Angeles and took Clifford E. Hanning (age 25 from Port Angeles and Sequim) into custody. He was transported to the Clallam County Jail and booked on felony charges of “residential burglary” and “malicious mischief”.
Background....
On June 24, 2012, at 10:59 a.m, Port Angeles Police Officers were dispatched to the 600 block of West 8th Street on a report of a burglary in progress. While enroute, officers were advised that a male had forced entry into the home and was armed with a crowbar. Officers were further advised that the suspect fled on foot after having confronted the victim/resident inside the home. Officers were not able to locate the suspect but found fresh evidence indicating a burglary had occurred.
Clifford E. Hanning (click to view larger image)
The suspect was described as a white/male, in his 20's, 5 feet, 6 inches tall, thin build, wearing a white T-shirt, blue jeans, and baseball cap. He was described as having pock marks on his face.
Through the course of the investigation the Port Angeles Police Department developed probable cause for the arrest Clifford E. Hanning, (age 25 from Port Angeles and Sequim) for felony charges which include “residential burglary” and “malicious mischief , third degree”. Hanning was last seen driving a primer-colored 1997 Ford Taurus, 4-door, bearing Washington license 201TOR.
Port Angeles Police Department
Patrol Corporal / K-9 Handler Kevin Miller
Phone: 360-417-4926
Email:
kmiller@cityofpa.us
OLYMPIC PENINSULA LAW ENFORCEMENT GRADUATES
June 21, 2012 - Law Enforcement leaders from three agencies in our area had a rare opportunity to meet together for the graduation ceremonies for Basic Law Enforcement Academy Class 681, at the Criminal Justice Training Commission in Burien yesterday afternoon. Three of the graduates from class 681 represented agencies in our area.
Deputy Laticia Wells of the Clallam County Sheriff's Office; Officer Bruce Fernie of the Port Angeles Police Department and Deputy Vergin of the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office were among the thirty member class that successfully completed the rigorous 19 weeks of course of instruction.
These officers began the academy on February 14 of this year, and were subjected to intense academic and physical training pertaining to law enforcement functions. Some subject matters include Criminal Law, Criminal Procedures, Traffic Enforcement, Patrol Procedures, Crisis Intervention, Domestic Violence and much more.
Left to right: Deputy Laticia Wells of the Clallam County Sheriff's Office; Officer Bruce Fernie of the Port Angeles Police Department, and Deputy Jeremy Vergin of the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office. Click photo to view larger image.
Deputy Wells is a graduate of Central Washington University with degrees in Criminal Justice and Sociology. She is from the Tacoma area and will be assigned to the central areas of Clallam County. Her hiring was the direct result of funding received from the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe who contracts with the Clallam County Sheriff for provide law enforcement services on the Jamestown S'Klallam reservation and properties.
Officer Fernie is a 2011 graduate of Washington State University and has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice. While previously a resident of Kitsap County, his family has long time ties to Clallam County with his father a graduate of Sequim High School and grandparents residing in rural Clallam County.
Deputy Vergin was born and raised in central Minnesota and spent time in the Navy. For the last 4 years Deputy Vergin was a Corrections Officer with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office. Today, Deputy Jeremy Vergin joins the patrol division at the Jefferson county Sheriff's Office as the newest Deputy and is expected to ultimately be assigned in the western areas of Jefferson County.
In addition to the 5 ½ month Basic Law Enforcement Academy training all three will now participate in a focused field training program with specially trained and experienced law enforcement officers from their home agency. This will teach the new officers the policies and procedures unique their agency and allow them to demonstrate and refine what they have learned over the last five and a half months in real life scenarios.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
K-9 JAG CAPTURES SUSPECT
On June 19, 2012, at approximately 1:05 a.m., Port Angeles Police Officers Andrew Neisinger and Glenn Wood were on Fairmont Avenue and Glenwood Road when they observed a motorcycle northbound at a high rate of speed estimated to be 70 mph in a 45 mph zone. Officers attempted to stop the motorcycle. The motorcycle turned left and proceeded westbound on West Lauridsen Blvd. At Lauridsen Blvd. and Airport Road officers lost sight of the vehicle and discontinued the pursuit.
Officers put out a description of the motorcycle and operator. With the assistance of the Lower Elwha Tribal Police they searched the general area. Officer Neisinger located fresh vehicle debris on Edgewood Drive west of Critchfield Road. Corporal Kevin Miller and K-9 Jag arrived and began a K-9 “track”. Additional officers arrived and established containment of the search area.
After a search and K-9 track across Edgewood Drive, Jag and Corporal Miller located a subject, later identified as Marc D. Kellen, age 22 from Port Angeles, hiding near a barbed-wire fence. Kellen appeared to have suffered injuries from a motorcycle crash. He was transported by ambulance to the Olympic Medical Center. Officers later located the heavily damaged motorcycle in a tree line. Officers noted that the motorcycle was located next to the area that Jag and Corporal Miller began the K-9 track.
Kellen was later released from Olympic Medical Center and placed under arrest by Port Angeles Police Officers. He was booked into the Clallam County Jail on charges including “Attempting to Elude a Peace Officer” (felony), “Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol”, and “Driving While License Suspended 2 nd Degree”. He was also booked on multiple arrest warrants. The motorcycle was towed from the scene.
This was K-9 Jag and Corporal Miller's third capture in two and a half weeks.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
Port Angeles Police Department
Patrol Corporal / K-9 Handler Kevin Miller
Phone: 360-417-4926
Email:
kmiller@cityofpa.us
HOME INVASION SUSPECTS ARRESTED
On May 24, 2012, at about 4:00 p.m., a Port Angeles man was assaulted inside his apartment in the 1300 block of Campbell Avenue. The subjects entered his apartment uninvited. The victim was beaten and money taken from him during the assault.
One of the suspects used a Taser to hold the other occupants of the apartment at bay while the victim was assaulted.
Suspects were developed during the investigation and the information was passed to area law enforcement agencies.
In the early morning hours of May 25, 2012, Sequim Police Department officers located the suspect vehicle used to flee from the crime scene parked at the residence of one of the suspects in the 200 block of North 5 th Avenue in Sequim.
Later in the morning, Clallam County Deputies and Sequim Police Officers took all three suspects into custody outside the residence. Port Angeles Detectives and officers interviewed the suspects and obtained a search warrant for the residence in Sequim.
Charles D. Aslin, age 38, Drew T. Balch, age 19, and Tabitha M. Anderson, age 32, were booked into the Clallam County Jail for Robbery in the First Degree and Burglary in the First Degree.
A person is guilty of robbery in the first degree if:
(a) In the commission of a robbery or of immediate flight there from, he or she: (i) Is armed with a deadly weapon; or (ii) Displays what appears to be a firearm or other deadly weapon; or (iii) Inflicts bodily injury.
A person is guilty of burglary in the first degree if: with intent to commit a crime against a person or property therein, he or she enters or remains unlawfully in a building and if, in entering or while in the building or in immediate flight there from, the actor or another participant in the crime (a) is armed with a deadly weapon, or (b) assaults any person.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Detective Sergeant Tyler Peninger
Phone: 360-417-4957
Email: tpeninge@cityofpa.us
Port Angeles Police Department
Detective Kevin Spencer
Phone: 360-417-4946
Email: kspencer@cityofpa.us
ARREST WARRANT ISSUED - LENA Y. GIULIETTI
Posted May 18, 2012 - Lena Y. Giulietti, was charged with two counts of Delivery of Heroin within 1000 feet of a School Bus Stop, in Clallam County Superior Court. The charges are the results of an OPNET investigation that occurred in August of 2011.
Giulietti was scheduled to appear in Clallam County Superior Court at 9:00 AM on May 18, 2012. However, she failed to appear and a $10,000.00 bench warrant has been issued for the arrest of Giulietti. Anyone with current information regarding Giulietti's whereabouts is encouraged to call police dispatch at 360-452-4545 and promptly provide law enforcement with details.
Lena Y. Giulietti / Click to view larger image
“During the summer and fall of 2011 OPNET investigated several controlled substance delivery cases. Many of the cases were related. The future filing of more charges is anticipated as state law allows for the filing of charges at any time up to three years after the unlawful delivery of controlled substances.”
JASON X. VIADA, OPNET Detective Sergeant
Phone: 360-565-7350
Email: jviada@cityofpa.us
SENTENCING IN OPNET DRUG CASES
Posted May 18, 2012 - Darren J. Samples, age 44 of Port Angeles was sentenced on May 14, 2012, to serve 55 months in state prison after he pled guilty to Delivery of a Methamphetamine. Samples accepted the plea offer in exchange for the dismissal of four other felony charges. The other charges included two counts of Delivery of Methamphetamine, Possession of Methamphetamine, and Possession of Marijuana. The investigation of this case began in the summer of 2011, and Olympic Peninsula Narcotics Enforcement Team (OPNET) purchased methamphetamine from Samples on multiple occasions.
Todd J. Dodge, age 40, formerly of Port Angeles, was sentenced on May 3, 2012, to serve 45 months after he pled guilty to Delivery of Heroin. Dodge was selected by OPNET in part because of his extensive criminal history that included at least 19 previous convictions. The investigation of this case occurred in 2011 when OPNET purchased heroin from Dodge.
Ashleigh L. McLennan, also known as Ashleigh Dodge, age 27, formerly of Port Angeles, was sentenced on May 9, 2012, to serve 20 months in state prison followed by 20 months of probation after she pled guilty to two counts of Delivery of Heroin. During the investigation of this case in 2011, OPNET purchased heroin from McLennan.
Ron C. Critchfield, age 40, of Port Angeles was sentenced on April 26, 2012, to serve 24 months probation on after he pled guilty to two counts of Delivery of Heroin. During the investigation of this case in 2011, OPNET purchased heroin from Critchfield.
“Even as these cases have made their way through our justice system, OPNET has continued to aggressively investigate several more related and unrelated controlled substance delivery cases. Many more arrests are anticipated,” OPNET Detective Sergeant Jason X. Viada.
JASON X. VIADA, OPNET Detective Sergeant
Phone: 360-565-7350
Email: jviada@cityofpa.us
DUI SUSPECT DRIVES CAR INTO GRANDVIEW GROCERY
On May 15, 2012, at approximately 7:15 PM a vehicle driven by Brice Mbili-Ambamba went over the cement parking barrier in front of Grandview Grocery and drove into the front of the building. The building sustained extensive damage to the east wall right behind the checkout and coffee bar area. The inside of the store was strewn with debris from the wall as well as food and merchandise that had been knocked to the floor. Mbili-Ambamba and his female passenger were not injured. Mbili-Ambamba, age 25 of Port Angeles, is a native of Cameroon.
Store clerk, Shana Menlove, age 22, was behind the counter at the time of the incident with another employee Jordan Cromer, age 26. Menlove was trapped with her ankle pinned in the debris between the car, the broken wall and the counter area. Kiersten Radden-Wold and another unidentified female stated they climbed over the counter and began pulling debris away from Menlove to free her foot. The two then sat Menlove down, elevated her injured ankle and placed an ice pack on it before Medics arrival. Menlove suffered a painful injury to her ankle and foot and planned to go to the emergency room via a private vehicle. While the two were assisting Menlove, Cromer ran outside to check on the occupants of the vehicle.
After investigation by Port Angeles Police, Mbili-Ambamba was arrested for DUI, Vehicular Assault, Making False Statements to a Law Enforcement Officer and Driving without a Valid Operator's License with No Identification.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Patrol Sgt. Barb McFall
Phone: 360-452-4545 / 360-912-0034
Email: bmcfall@cityofpa.us
COUNTERFEIT MONEY SUSPECTS ARRESTED
Posted May 1, 2012 - Beginning April 22, 2012, Port Angeles Police Officers received and began investigating numerous complaints of subjects attempting to pass counterfeit ten and twenty dollar bills. Officers made contact with various merchants, recovered counterfeit ten and twenty dollar bills, and reviewed various video camera images of suspects. Through interviews and follow up officers identified two individuals, Alice K. Elliot, age 53 from Port Angeles, and Julian Z. Huxtable, age 19 from Port Angeles, and determined they had probable cause to arrest both individuals for felony charges related to RCW 9A.60.020 “Forgery”.
On April 25, 2012, Officer Andrew Heuett was assisting another officer on an unrelated call on the 900 block of West 10 th Street and recognized Huxtable. Huxtable was placed under arrest and later booked into the Clallam County Jail. On April 27, 2012, officers located Elliot on the 1200 block of Craig Avenue. She was placed under arrest and later booked onto the Clallam County Jail.
Through the investigation, officers have conducted interviews of victims, witnesses, and potential suspects, and have obtained and served several search warrants. The United States Secret Service (USSS) was also contacted and an agent was assigned to work the cases jointly with the Port Angeles Police Department. To date investigators have recovered a quantity of counterfeit ten dollar bills, a quantity of counterfeit 20 dollar bills, and uncovered evidence of at least four events between April 22 and April 26, 2012, where subjects attempted to, or successfully passed, counterfeit ten or twenty dollar U.S. currency.
Investigators are asking merchants to be on the lookout for ten dollar bills with serial #1F26853963B and twenty dollar bills with serial number 1L69774786C. Officers, PAPD Detectives, and USSS Special Agents are working to locate additional suspects involved in the production and distribution of counterfeit U.S. currency.
Persons who locate counterfeit or suspected counterfeit U.S. currency can call the Port Angeles Police Department at 452-4545. Persons with information on the production or distribution of counterfeit money and who wish to remain anonymous can call the NORTH OLYMPIC CRIME STOPPERS at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)
If you have information regarding any of the crimes described above your tip can be given anonymously. You will not be asked to identify yourself; you will be identified by a number only. Any reward you are entitled to can also be paid without your identity being given.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Dan Morse / Police Officer
360-452-4545
Email: dmorse@cityofpa.us
FACEBOOK FUGITIVE - TRAVIS A. NICOLAYSEN ARRESTED
On April 16, 2012, at approximately 2:00 PM, Port Angeles Police Officers responded to a residence on the 500 block of East 12 th Street in Port Angeles. Officers had received information that Travis A. Nicolaysen was “hiding” in the residence.
With the assistance of the Clallam County Sheriff's Department, the Washington State Department of Corrections, and members of the US Marshal's Fugitive Task Force, officers and investigators established containment. A Port Angeles Police Dept. K-9 unit was also called to the scene.
Investigators were able to gain consent to enter the residence and Nicolaysen was taken into custody without incident. He was transported to the Clallam County Jail and booked on his outstanding felony warrants. Additional felony charges are pending.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
Posted April 5, 2012 - Foot Pursuit - On 4-4-2012 at approximately 1435 hours, Port Angeles Police acted on a tip that Nicolaysen was walking in the area of Civic Field. Officers responded to the area but were unable to locate him. Shortly after that PAPD received a 911 call stating Nicolaysen was seen at Rhino Gas in the 1200 Block of E First Street. Officers arrived in the area and Officer John Nutter was in a short foot pursuit with Nicolaysen before losing sight of him. Port Angeles PD, Clallam County Sheriff's Department and Washington State Patrol officers formed a perimeter around the area.
At one point, Nicolaysen popped up again and began to run northbound in the area of Olympic Medical Center, resulting in another short foot pursuit before officers again lost sight of him. K-9 Jag and Corporal Miller were called in to assist with the search at approximately 1510 hours.
The K-9 search was concluded at 1643 hours without locating Nicolaysen though K-9 Jag did locate the blue bandana that Nicolaysen had been wearing. Today he was wearing a brown jacket, sun glasses, blue jeans, a backpack and a blue bandana.
Description - Travis A. Nicolaysen is 5'7” and approximately 150 lbs. He has long wavy brown hair frequently worn in a braid or ponytail. Nicolaysen tends to wear a mustache with short, full beard or goatee. Nicolaysen has a small tear drop tattoo under the outer corner of his left eye. He also has a tattoo on the left side of his neck, both forearms and both calves. This is an old photo and was taken prior to August 2009.
Anyone seeing Nicolaysen or having information is encouraged to contact the Port Angeles Police Department at 360-452-4545 or 9-11, or North Olympic Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Patrol Sgt. Barb McFall
Phone: 360-452-4545 / 360-912-0034
Email: bmcfall@cityofpa.us
DUI Vehicle Accident / Attempt to Locate Witness
On 3-20-2012 at approximately 2:50PM a brown Ford pickup truck was involved in a single vehicle accident on the Tumwater Truck Route just south of the 8 th Street Bridge. The vehicle left the road and traveled approximately 100 yards along the shoulder and through the ditch before coming to rest. The Port Angeles Police Department was notified and officers responded.
Based on their on-scene investigation the driver of the truck was subsequently arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI). He was transported to the Olympic Medical Center and later transported to and booked into the Clallam County Jail. He was arraigned in front of a judge this morning, charged with DUI, and was released on $1000.00 bail.
An unidentified “Good Samaritan” and potential witness was reportedly the first person on the scene. This witness was believed to have been in a white passenger car, possibly a Toyota or Mazda. There was a female in the car with him and this witness was reportedly in a hurry to get to work before 3PM.
Prior to the Police Department arrival an on duty U.S. Border Patrol Agent had stopped at the scene and offered assistance. The DUI driver had reportedly moved themselves into the witness's car and tried to climb into the backseat. The witness asked the Agent for help in getting DUI driver out of his back seat and out of the vehicle. The witness subsequently left the scene before the Agent or Police Officers could identify him.
The Port Angeles Police Department is interested in identifying and speaking with the alleged witness and his female companion. They are requested to contact Sergeant Barb McFall from 7AM – 3PM at 452-4545 ( bmcfall@cityofpa.us ). They can reach the Patrol Watch Commander at any other time.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Patrol Sgt. Barb McFall
Phone: 360-452-4545 / 360-912-0034
Email: bmcfall@cityofpa.us
FELON IN POSSESSION OF A FIREARM
SUBJECT SENTENCED TO 3 YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON AFTER JOINT INVESTIGATION
On March 19, 2012, Leo Claude Blanton, of Port Angeles, was sentenced in the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington to serve three years in federal custody followed by three years of supervised release for his conviction of violations of Title 18 of the United States Code, Section 922 (g) (1) and 924 (a) (2), “Felon In Possession of a Firearm”.
The case began on August 21, 2011, when Port Angeles Police Officers were called to a domestic disturbance in front of a residence on the 1000 block of Craig Avenue in Port Angeles. Officers arrive to find a female in front of the residence armed with a handgun and a male armed with a baseball bat. Officers detained both subjects and through their investigation determined that one of the involved parties, Leo Claude Blanton, had been in possession of a loaded handgun and was a convicted felon. Officers subsequently obtained a search warrant for an associated vehicle. During the service of the search warrant, six firearms (several loaded), dozens of syringes, drug paraphernalia, and body armor were recovered,
Blanton was arrested, booked into the Clallam County Jail, and state felony charges were filed by the County Prosecutor. Because of the nature of the case, PAPD Detectives requested assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (BATF). Working jointly with the Port Angeles Police Department a BATF Special Agent subsequently presented the case to the United States Attorney and it was accepted for federal prosecution.
Blanton was later indicted by a Federal Grand Jury in Seattle. After his sentencing on March 19, 2012, he was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
Port Angeles Police Department
Patrol Corporal / K-9 Handler Kevin Miller
Phone: 360-417-4926
Email:
kmiller@cityofpa.us
Vehicular Assault Subject Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison
On March 15 , 2012, Michael J. Moyle of Port Angeles was sentenced in Clallam County Superior Court to 10 years in state prison. He was found guilty in a jury trial on January 26, 2012, on four counts of vehicular assault, two counts of second degree assault of a child, second degree assault and intentional infliction of bodily harm and hit-and-run.
The case began on April 13, 2011, when a vehicle driven by a Stuart Baker of Port Angeles left the Albertson's parking lot and was pursued by a black Mustang driven by Michael J. Moyle. Stuart Baker's mother was in the vehicle with him as well as a one-year-old female and a four-year-old male.
Moyle drove into the back of Baker's vehicle at a high rate of speed. The collision occurred on Laurel Street at Viewcrest. The force of the impact drove Baker's vehicle approximately 150 feet into a telephone pole which hit broadside on the rear driver's side where the four year old male was sitting. The four year old sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to a Seattle hospital. The two adults also sustained injuries and were transported to Olympic Medical Center.
The Mustang attempted to flee but stopped approximately one block away at Ahlver's Road (when it was unable to continue). The Mustang was disabled to the force of the collision. Michael J. Moyle fled the scene in a light blue Toyota pickup driven by a second subject. Both Moyle and the second individual were positively identified by a Port Angeles Police Officer as they left the scene in the subject's pickup. It was not known at that time that Moyle was the suspect in the collision.
The collision appeared at the time to be an intentional assault by Michael Moyle against Stuart Baker, his mother and two small children riding in Stuart's vehicle. The second individual drove Moyle away from the scene thereby rendering criminal assistance.
Port Angeles Police Department had probable cause for the arrest of Michael Joseph Moyle for Felony hit and run, four counts with Assault with a deadly weapon. There was probable cause for the arrest of the second individual for Rendering Criminal Assistance. After a multi-day and widely publicized manhunt both subjects were arrested.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Patrol Sgt. Barb McFall
Phone: 360-452-4545 / 360-912-0034
Email: bmcfall@cityofpa.us
SERIAL BURGLARY SUSPECT ARRESTED- UPDATE
On March 13, 2012, at approximately 11:40 a.m., Port Angeles Police Department Officer John Nutter was flagged down by a dry cleaning business owner near the 500 block of East First Street. He reported that he had been “robbed”. Additional officers responded and it was determined that a male subject had reportedly entered the dry cleaning business and after approximately 10 minutes left abruptly. The business owner immediately noticed that cash and checks were missing from the cash register. He spotted the subject running across First Street.
The suspect then reportedly fled toward Jesse Webster Park. Officers, with the assistance of the Clallam County Sheriff's Department, the Lower Elwha Tribal Police, the US Border Patrol, and the Washington State Patrol set up a perimeter around the park. PAPD K-9 Officer Brusseau and K-9 Kilo were deployed but not successful in locating the suspect or his area of travel. A photo and description was broadcast to officers and circulated locally.
At approximately 1:00 p.m. the Police Department received a call that a suspect matching the description had been seen running from the park and toward 2 nd Street. Officers responded and subsequently arrested Nicholas Mallonee, 22 years old and reportedly homeless. He was booked into the Clallam County Jail on three felony counts of Burglary and three counts of Theft in the 3 rd Degree. Officer Brusseau was then able to perform a “track” into the park and subsequently retraced the suspect's line of travel. They located the stolen checks and the clothing that matched the description given by witnesses.
Over the past four months, at least five daytime business burglaries have been reported in Port Angeles in which the male suspect entered the business, distracted the clerk, opened the till and / or grabbed cash and fled. The suspect (Nicholas Mallonee) is a white male, 5'10 tall, often has a goatee, and has a prominent birthmark / mole on his left cheek. Based on the investigation to date, Officers have attributed the following cases to the subject:
- 11/15/11 – PAPD Case 2011-20296 – business on the 100 block of East First Street – A suspect described as a white male, 25-28 years old, approximately 5'08 tall, and having a goatee and a significant mole on his face demanded the clerk go get the owner from the basement. Once the clerk left $120 in cash was stolen from the cash register
- 01/10/12 – PAPD Case 2012-00591 – business on the 1600 block of East Front Street– Male suspect asked the clerk to go get him a drink. When she left to do so he reached over the counter and grabbed the cash box containing $240 before fleeing. The witness described the suspect as a white male, 20-30 years old, approximately 6'00 tall with “facial sores.”
- 02/19/12 – PAPD Case 2012-02932 – business on the 100 block of North Laurel Street – Male suspect stole $100 cash from the cash register while the clerk was in the bathroom. She described him as a white male in his mid-20's with a large mole on his face
- 03/10/12 – PAPD Case 2012-04167 – business at 1100 block East Front St – Male suspect told the clerk there was pet food in the back room he was picking up. When the clerk left to look for it the suspect took approximately $750 cash from 2 cash registers. Video footage of the theft was obtained. In that footage the suspect was wearing brown “Carhardt” type pants and a black jacket with unique markings on it.
- 03/13/12 – PAPD Case 2012-04316 – business at the 400 block East First St – Male suspect watched the clerk until his back was turned then opened the cash register and took $40 in cash, checks, and credit card receipts.
- Based on the matching physical descriptions, corroborating evidence, and statements obtained Officers believed there was probable cause to charge Mallone with 5 counts of Burglary 2 nd and Theft 3 rd (i.e., willfully entering each of the stores above with the intent to steal from them and committing theft at each of the locations).
Officers are currently investigating a sixth case which may or may not be connected the above thefts/burglaries. The Sequim Police Department has also four reported cases with a similar MO. Their officers have been working with the Port Angeles Police Department and are working to determine which if any cases are connected to the suspect.
Persons wanting to report crimes with similar MOs in Port Angeles or those who that have additional information regarding these crimes should call Port Angeles Police Dept. Downtown Resource Officer John Nutter at 360-417-4964. Sequim Police Officer Paul Dallidennas can be reached at 360-683-4243.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
Port Angeles Police Department
Downtown Resource Officer John Nutter
Phone: 360-417-4964 or 360-912-0168
Email: jnutter@cityofpa.us
Burglary Suspect Arrested - Property Recovered
On March 10, 2012, at approximately 5:30 p.m. Officer Josh Powless responded to a report of a burglary at a residence on the 600 block of East 8 th Street. Officers determined a padlock on a residential garage had been cut off and the garage entered. A Suzuki DRZ10 motorcycle was reported stolen from the garage.
Later in the evening, area residents called the Port Angeles Police Department to report a suspicious male near the residence taking additional items of property. Officers responded. The motorcycle that had been reported as stolen earlier was recovered at the scene. They were also able to obtain a first name and description of a male suspect.
On March 11, 2012, area residents again called PAPD and reported the same male had returned, but this time in a truck. Officer Powless located the truck on the 100 block of East 6 th Street and made contact with a male who matched the description (and the first name) of the suspect who reportedly left the stolen motorcycle at the burglary scene. Officers took the male into custody. They subsequently obtained a search warrant for additional stolen property reportedly inside a residence on the 100 block of E. 6th Street. During the service of the search warrant, officers also located a quantity of marijuana.
Officers subsequently obtained three addendums to the search warrant. Officers located methamphetamine, a substantial amount of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, two handguns, burglary tools, and a badge from a law enforcement agency. They also located a large number of electronic items and additional property that might be stolen. Officers and Detectives are working now to determine which of the items recovered may have been reported as stolen.
Pedro Alexander Jaramillo, age 23 from Port Angeles, was booked into the Clallam County Jail on felony charges of “Possession of a Stolen Vehicle” and “Possession of Stolen Property 3rd ”. “The investigation is ongoing and still unfolding at this point. The diligent work of Officer Powless and the PAPD Patrol Officers was greatly enhanced by cooperation from members of the community”.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
HEROIN DEALER ARRESTED
February 6, 2012 -
Ronald C. Critchfield, age 40, of Port Angeles was arrested on February 3, 2012, at a home in the 800 block of East Lauridsen Boulevard for three counts of Delivery of Heroin and Delivery of Heroin within 1000 feet of a School Bus Stop. The arrest was a team effort between Olympic Peninsula Narcotics Enforcement Team (OPNET) Detectives and Port Angeles Police Department Officers.
Critchfield's arrest was based on probable cause developed by OPNET during an investigation in August and September of 2011. OPNET purchased heroin from Critchfield on at least three separate occasions. Two of the purchases occurred near a school bus stop. Critchfield was booked into the Clallam County Jail and the Clallam County prosecutor has reviewed the case for charges.
"This arrest, like the recent arrest of Omer Needham, is one more very small part of a much larger investigation”, Jason Viada, Narcotics Team Supervisor.
JASON X. VIADA, OPNET Detective Sergeant
Phone: 360-565-7350
Email: jviada@cityofpa.us
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT / OPNET – CASE UPDATES
HEROIN DEALER ARRESTED IN PORT ANGELES
Ralph Omer Needham, age 37 of Port Angeles, was arrested at a residence in the 200 block of W. 2nd on Thursday, February 2, 2012, by Port Angeles Police Officers.
The arrest was a result of probable cause developed by the Olympic Peninsula Narcotics Enforcement Team (OPNET) in an investigation during the summer of 2011. OPNET purchased heroin from Needham on at least three occasions. All of the purchases occurred near a school bus stop.
Needham was booked into the Clallam County Jail for Delivery of a Controlled Substance. Needham's case is being reviewed by the Clallam County Prosecutor for charges of Heroin Delivery and Delivery of a Controlled Substance within 1000 feet of a School Bus Stop.
"This arrest is one very small part of a much larger ongoing investigation."
JASON X. VIADA, OPNET Detective Sergeant
Phone: 360-565-7350
Email: jviada@cityofpa.us
_____________________________________
HEROIN DEALER CHARGED
Cheryl A. King, age 51, of Port Angeles was charged with 4 counts of Delivery of Heroin, Delivery of a Controlled Substance within 1000 Feet of a Designated School Bus Stop, Unlawful Use of a Building for Drug Purposes, and Possession of Heroin in Clallam County Superior Court on January 13, 2012.
King was arrested at her home in the 1300 block of East 1st Street on January 12 when detectives from the Olympic Peninsula Narcotics Enforcement Team, OPNET, executed a search warrant at King's home. Another woman was also arrested during the incident. Two additional women were detained and released. Officers from the Clallam County Sheriff's Office, Port Angeles Police Department, and Sequim Police Department also assisted with the service of the search warrant.
The case began in the summer of 2011 when OPNET purchased heroin from King on at least four separate occasions. "King's case is just one example of the increase in heroin related crimes that we noticed in our community last summer."
__________________________________________________
METHAMPHETAMINE DEALER CHARGED
Darren J. Samples, age 44 of Port Angeles, was charged in Clallam County Superior Court with 3 Counts of Delivery of Methamphetamine, Delivery of a Controlled Substance within 1000 feet of a School Bus Stop, Unlawful Use of a Building for Drug Purposes, Possession of Methamphetamine, and Possession of Over 40 Grams of Marijuana, on January 6th 2012.
On January 5, 2012, was arrested during the execution of a search warrant at his apartment in Port Angeles. Detectives of the Olympic Peninsula Narcotics Enforcement Team (OPNET); along with Detectives from the Port Angeles Police Department and Sequim Police Department, and Deputies from the Clallam County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant at an apartment in the 200 Block of North Liberty Street. Shortly after his arrest Samples was booked into the Clallam County Jail on several drug charges including Delivery of a Controlled Substance within 1000 feet of a School Zone.
This case began during the summer of 2011. OPNET purchased methamphetamine from Samples on multiple occasions. After reviewing an affidavit, a Superior Court Judge found probable cause to authorize detectives to search Samples' home. During the search additional evidence was located and seized, including drugs, cash, and a motor vehicle.
This case is of particular concern because of the very close proximity of two school bus stops to Mr. Samples' apartment.
JASON X. VIADA, OPNET Detective Sergeant
Phone: 360-565-7350
Email: jviada@cityofpa.us
K-9 LOCATES ROBBERY SUSPECTS
On January 24, 2012, at approximately 5:00 PM Port Angeles Police Officers responded to a reported strong-arm robbery at a motel near Front and Washington Street. Upon arrival officers found an injured victim who reported that two subjects secured him with duct-tape, robbed him at gunpoint and then fled southbound. With the assistance of the Clallam County Sheriff's Dept, the US Border Patrol, the Washington State Patrol, and the Lower Elwha Tribal Police, containment was established in an area up to 5 th and Race Streets. PAPD Corporal Kevin Miller and K-9 Jag began a “K-9 track” from the reported robbery scene.
The K-9 track led eight blocks south and to an apartment complex near 5 th and Francis Streets. Officers secured the area around the apartment complex as they searched for the suspects. Officers also had an excellent description of the two male suspects. Through the help of persons at the complex they were able to determine that two persons matching the description had been seen at a particular apartment. The occupant of the apartment eventually gave Clallam County Sheriff's Department investigators permission to enter and search for the suspects. Both subjects were subsequently located.
The victim positively identified both suspects. Charles L. Pitchford, Jr. (22 yrs old) and Joseph E. Elliot, Jr. (22 years old) were booked into the Clallam County on felony charges of armed robbery in the first degree. Both listed their addresses as “homeless”. The victim suffered lacerations to the head and reportedly refused medical treatment by EMS personnel. Officers secured and executed a search warrant on an apartment and recovered some physical evidence. Additional physical evidence was recovered at the crime scene and the investigation continues today.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT - NEWS RELEASES / 2011
UPDATE - SHOOTING INCIDENT
On December 23, 2011, at approximately 11:11 PM Port Angeles Police received a 9-1-1 call from a residence in the 600 Block of West 13 th Street. The caller reported people yelling and at least two series of multiple gunshots near a residence in the neighborhood.
The incident, as reported to police, began when Micah D. West, age 29 and a resident of Port Angeles, was asked to leave a party at a residence in the neighborhood. West left the party but returned a short time later armed with multiple handguns. West allegedly attempted to re-enter the residence where the party was occurring. He was unsuccessful.
At that time West reportedly began shooting into the residence. None of the 12 people (adults and children) inside the residence were injured however a water line was broken and a stereo received damage. West also fired several bullets into a van that was parked near the residence. Additional bullets struck a fence in the neighborhood and a garage. Following the shooting West retreated into the wooded valley to the west of the party location.
Port Angeles police dispatched all available units to the shooting. This included both swing and graveyard shifts. Additional law enforcement assistance was provided by the Clallam County Sheriff's Office, the Elwha Tribal Police, a Sequim Police K-9 unit, agents from the US Border Patrol, and agents from the Office of Customs Air and Marine. A command post was established, and a perimeter was established that ultimately contained the suspect in the woods. PAPD negotiators were able to contact West by cell phone and initiate efforts to talk him into surrendering to the police. At approximately 1:41 AM West emerged from the woods and was taken into custody by officers.
Two handguns were recovered that police believe were used in the shooting. West was incarcerated at the Clallam County Correctional Facility on a charge of Assault 1. The Clallam County Prosecutor subsequently filed the following additional felony charges: Six counts of Felony Assault in the First Degree, two Felony Counts of Assault in the First Degree Against and Child, and two counts of malicious mischief. He remains in custody in the Clallam County Jail.
The approximately four hour operation (on December 23 rd and 24 th) to contain, locate, and apprehend West involved over 30 law enforcement officers, detectives, and federal agents. During the operation West was contained in a steep and heavily wooded area that offered him considerable cover and concealment. Officers were aided by the deployment of sophisticated heat sensing and night vision equipment provided by the US Border Patrol and Air Marine agents. This equipment allowed the officers to locate and monitor the suspect, and ultimately allowed them to safely take him into custody. PAPD Detectives and Officers spent numerous hours during the following day and during the following week processing both the crime scene and evidence, interviewing victims and witnesses, and preparing the case to it could be forwarded to the Clallam County Prosecutor.
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Terry Gallagher, Chief
360-417-4901
tgallagher@cityofpa.us
PORT ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Brian S. Smith /
Deputy Chief of Police
360-417-4902 / 360-912-0184
Email: bsmith@cityofpa.us
SENTENCING IN COUNTY TREASURER'S OFFICE EMBEZZLEMENT CASE
AUGUST 24, 2011 -
Betts sentenced to 12 years in prison and ordered to pay $607,516 in restitution.
July 27, 2011 -
Cathy A. Betts, was found guilty by a jury of one count of Theft One with a Special Verdict, one count of Money Laundering with a Special Verdict, and 19 counts of Causing False Tax Returns to be Filed. The Special Verdicts are a result of the jury finding the theft and money laundering were Major Economic Offenses.
Betts, a former cashier at the Clallam County Treasurer's Office, had been appearing on her own recognizance throughout the court proceedings. However, after being found guilty of 21 felonies she was immediately taken into custody and booked into the Clallam County Jail on $100,000.00 bail. Her sentencing has been set for Wednesday, August 24, 2011, at 9:00 A.M.
The case began in May of 2009, when the Clallam County Treasurer reported a theft that had been committed by the cashier. A Port Angeles Police Detective responded, took the initial complaint and initiated what would be a two-year investigation. The investigation was a team effort between the Port Angeles Police Department, Clallam County Sheriff's Office, Washington State Auditor's Office, the Washington State Attorney General's Office and others.
The investigation revealed that a minimum of about $617,000.00 had been stolen from the Treasurer's Office by Betts between 2003 and 2009. The case was prosecuted by a Washington State Assistant Attorney General.
JASON X. VIADA, OPNET Detective Sergeant
Phone: 360-565-7350
Email: jviada@cityofpa.us
CALL CRIMESTOPPERS TO REPORT INFORMATION
The Port Angeles Police Department greatly appreciates the public's vigilance in maintaining a safe community for all, especially children. As always, parents should teach their children basic safety practices such as staying in a group, and should a child be approached inappropriately to yell out "NO", and run to the closest trusted adult.
1-800-222-TIPS (8477)
Unless it is an emergency situation, the best avenue for reporting possible suspects or information for this, or other crimes, is through CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). M ost major crimes are solved not by brilliant investigative work, but as a direct result of information provided by the public. Witnesses, however, are often reluctant to provide information to law enforcement for two reasons - fear and apathy.
CrimeStoppers works because it is designed to overcome fear by allowing citizens to remain anonymous, and overcome apathy by offering cash rewards for information leading to the solution of major crimes. If you have information, remember that your tip can be given anonymously. You will not be asked to identify yourself; you will be identified by a number only. Any reward you are entitled to can also be paid without your identity being given.
The program provides the police with information regarding specific crimes and pays a reward of up to $1000 for information that leads to any arrest with the filing of felony charges. Persons calling in tips do not have to give their name and may remain anonymous if they wish. The 24-hour toll free phone number for North Olympic Crime Stoppers is 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Call 911 should you have an emergency, or call 360-452-4545 for general information. Listen to your local radio station 1450 AM.
Refer to your telephone book for information regarding other emergency assistance. Make sure you have stored a minimum of one gallon of water, per person, per day.
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