Patrol honored for help catching suspect

WENATCHEE - Three communication officers were honored last week for their swift assistance locating a man arrested for shooting an off-duty Grant County sheriff's deputy.

Wenatchee Washington State Patrol Communications Officers Joyce Keller, Tony Amorati and Dolores Blas-Cazares received commendations for their efforts compiling a list and information leading to the arrest of Robbie Jo Marcher.

Marcher, 38, was arrested after allegedly shooting Deputy Earl Romig in the back with a hunting rifle Jan. 10.

Romig was reportedly hunting in a secluded area near Soap Lake when he was shot. The bullet entered through his back and exited through his stomach causing several internal injuries.

The deputy is recovering.

The communications officers complied a list of hunters in the area where Romig was hunting with assistance from the state Department of Wildlife. Hunters are required to have a special permit to hunt in the area the shooting took place.

The communication officers searched computer records locating driver's license and vehicle license plate information to find a match with a potential suspect.

Within one hour the communication officers compiled a list of potential suspects and Marcher was arrested in less than 12 hours after the shooting.