Investigators have 'Persons of interest' in BB gun vandalism

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake Police Chief Dean Mitchell said the have “persons of interest” related to the BB gun vandalism.

He gave Vision 2020 an update about the department’s efforts in locating a suspect related to BB gun vandalism.

Since Jan. 2, there were more than 100 business windows and glass doors broken in Moses Lake with the use of BB guns. For the first couple weeks of the year, there were reports nearly everyday. During the past few days, there were fewer reports since the police department and business community stepped up with block watches, publicly announced emphasis patrols and an increased reward for $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of a suspect.

Mitchell said police determined there are at least two different groups committing the acts. He said it is not gang-related and there are people of interest.

The chief explained police are progressing in their search but could not reveal further details about the information because it could spoil their investigation.

Mitchell explained the work police have done so far.

Since the BB gun vandalism increased during the past few months, police began extra patrols with officers dressed in plain clothing and set up a sting hoping to attract a suspect and installed surveillance cameras around town.

At the department’s request, merchants began registering people who purchase BB gun equipment and the city offered a reward for information leading to the arrest of a suspect. Eventually the business community began pledging money to the fund.

Mitchell appointed Sgt. Brian Jones to head the investigation so all the information could be collaborated and evaluated for possible patterns and suspect information.

An anonymous tip line was established and police continue the extra patrols, he said.

The primary roadways targeted by the shooters are Broadway Avenue, Pioneer Way, Stratford Road and Valley Road, he explained. There is also some activity on Third Avenue.

Mitchell said one merchant on Broadway Avenue installed a surveillance system recently in hopes of recording a suspect.

“The windows are very expensive,” he said.

Some windows cost more than $1,000 to replace, Mitchell added.

“We think it’s something to tick everyone off and it’s done a damn good job of it,” he said. “They just drive by and shoot the windows out. This has been a real frustration.”

No other agencies in the area are having the vandalism problem.

“A big portion of our resources are being expended on this investigation,” Mitchell said.

Moses Lake Business Association Executive Director Marianne Bondi said nine people signed up for the business block watch program last Friday. They work in two hour shifts.

“It’s really basic, really easy to do,” she said.

Bondi said she encourages people to continue pledging money to the reward fund to entice someone to come forward with information. She said it’s unclear how much money it will take to get the information because it could most likely result in someone testifying in court against their own friend.

To pledge money to the reward or join the block watch, contact Bondi at 509-764-1745.

To leave an anonymous tip with police, call 509-766-9273.