MLPD makes quick arrest

MOSES LAKE — Police made quick work of a stolen property case Wednesday after two suspects believed to be involved in stealing a tractor drove by while officers were collecting a detailed description of the men and their vehicle.

Police had responded to a report of a stolen tractor located on a trailer near North Westshore Drive around 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, and were taking information from the reporting party when the described suspects reportedly drove nearby. The suspects initially stopped when officers attempted a traffic stop, but took off down westbound I-90, according to police logs.

When the vehicle came to a stop near exit 169, police got into position for a high-risk traffic stop, drawing their weapons and boxing the vehicle in. Both suspects surrendered to law enforcement and were taken into custody.

The driver, Justin Morris, is facing felony eluding and obstruction of justice charges, while his passenger, Ryan Runnells, is being charged with possession of stolen property, according to police officials. Police said that Runnells also had an outstanding misdemeanor warrant.

A firearm was found under Runnells’ seat. Runnels had previously been convicted of a felony, though charges have not yet been added for that offense. Both men claimed they had no knowledge of the firearm or the stolen tractor, though the tractor has been equipped with a California license plate that belonged to Morris’ grandfather, according to police logs.

Police are awaiting a search warrant for the suspects’ vehicle.