Quincy farmer captures metal theft suspects

QUINCY - A Quincy farmer held two suspects, who allegedly stole

metal items from him, at his property on Wednesday afternoon until

law enforcement arrived.

The farmer reported seeing two suspects in a maroon-colored 1993

Isuzu Rodeo on his farm located on Road 11.2 Northwest in Quincy,

according to Grant County Sheriff's Office Chief Deputy Ken

Jones.

QUINCY - A Quincy farmer held two suspects, who allegedly stole metal items from him, at his property on Wednesday afternoon until law enforcement arrived.

The farmer reported seeing two suspects in a maroon-colored 1993 Isuzu Rodeo on his farm located on Road 11.2 Northwest in Quincy, according to Grant County Sheriff's Office Chief Deputy Ken Jones.

Wood told authorities he got into his work truck and drove to the suspects and asked them to leave his property, according to Jones.

When the two drove away, the farmer noticed metal items in the back of the Isuzu belonging to him.

He caught up to the suspects and asked the two to stay at the property until law enforcement arrived, according to Jones.

The sheriff's office arrested Michael Wawaers, 49, Quincy, and Bethany Lasley, 24, Quincy, for trespassing in the second degree and theft in the second degree.

Jones said the farmer has been a victim of theft in the past.

Wood asked Grant County courts to pursue a more aggressive approach to people found guilty of wire theft, according to Jones.

"He wants to help the citizens of Grant County stop the ring of wire theft going on. Wire theft is a clear problem in the county. We get daily reports and calls that there has been wire or metal theft. The sheriff's office is taking a stand and pursuing all the necessary avenues to remedy this issue," said Jones.

At least 13 incidences of wire or metal theft were reported in the county since December, according to the sheriff's office.

Jones explained Washington state is one of the largest exporters of metal in the country and the material is sought around the world.

"But metal can be difficult to track because it typically doesn't come with serial numbers or anything. But the value of metal does not depreciate. Older metal has the same value as new metal," he said.

"People are finding new ways to create a quick financial gain. They are figuring out different techniques to obtain metals and send them to local recycling centers," Jones added.