NEWS BITES for Aug. 1, 2024

EPHRATA — The Ephrata Police Department is seeking information about a lost dog (see photo above). The department asks that if anyone recognizes the dog to contact the department at 509-754-2491. 

KITTITAS AND GRANT COUNTIES — Washington State Patrol District 6, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, is launching a High Visibility Enforcement patrol during the Watershed festival weekend in Kittitas and Grant Counties. The three-day concert series, to be held from Friday, Aug. 2, to Sunday, Aug. 4, is one of the largest outdoor festivals in Washington State. In an effort to reduce serious injury and fatality collisions, WSP District 6 is focusing on enforcing collision-causing violations, electronic device usage, and seatbelt violations. Utilizing resources such as the Aggressive Driving Apprehension Team vehicles, Aviation, and state-of-the-art speed measuring devices in marked patrol cars, WSP District 6 aims to maintain highway safety throughout the weekend. 

OTHELLO — The Adams County Sheriff’s Office released a statement July 17 about a female in medical distress. Upon the arrival of deputies, the 38-year-old was unresponsive and turning shades of blue. The deputies administered two doses of NARCAN, and the female slowly returned to a semi-conscious state and began breathing on her own. The statement says that the teamwork and professionalism of the deputies was outstanding.  

OTHELLO — On July 21, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office released a statement about a report of assault having occurred in a field near West Highway 26 and South Booker Road on July 20. 

The victim and multiple witnesses told the department that there was an argument between multiple subjects which escalated to a physical altercation. The male suspect pulled a knife, attempted to stab the victim and then later hit the victim with a garden hoe multiple times. The victim received medical treatment and had non-life-threatening injuries. 

Through investigation, the deputies identified the suspect as 50-year-old Claudio Aguirre-Vasquez. Aguirre-Vasquez was booked into jail on suspicion of assault on the first degree.   

OTHELLO — The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is hiring corrections staff. The post says that there are competitive wages and benefits. More information on the current positions the department is hiring for can be found at co.adams.wa.us.

OTHELLO — On Saturday, the Othello Police Department released a statement about a business robbery Jan. 18. The burglary occurred at a business in the 300 block of North Broadway. During the investigation, it was found that an ATV had been stolen after a locked door was forced open. Shoe impressions were seen inside the building, leading south. 

Officer Martin Garza from the Othello Police Department and Adams County Sheriff Deputies followed the shoe impressions to a residence in the 2300 block of SR26. There, they identified Mario Guzman near the stolen ATV, standing just 15 feet away. Although Guzman was wearing different footwear, a matching pair of shoes was found in the garage where he was discovered. Based on this evidence, Guzman was arrested and booked into jail on suspicion of burglary. 

On July 25, the Adams County Prosecutor’s Office conducted a trial, presenting the gathered evidence to a jury. The one-day trial concluded with a guilty verdict. Guzman was charged with second-degree burglary and possession of a stolen vehicle. His sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 5. 

The Othello Police Department expressed their gratitude to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, the Adams County Prosecutor’s Office and the citizens who assisted in the investigation. 

RITZVILLE — According to the Ritzville Police Department on July 20 there was a man with a large knife threatening individuals in the downtown area and Adams County Sheriff dispatch alerted the on-duty police officer. The suspect, identified as Brian Packer (Massy), 36, was apprehended and a machete was found nearby. Packer was taken into custody and booked on charges including Attempted Assault and Obstruction of a Law Enforcement Officer. Officer Carlson sustained injuries during the arrest and was treated at Ritzville Hospital.  

Deputy Lane of the Adams County Sheriff's Department assisted in the apprehension of Packer. A statement of probable cause has been submitted to the Adams County Prosecutor’s Office for formal charges. The Ritzville Police Department wants to remind the community to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. 

RITZVILLE — The Ritzville Police Department is looking for a new police chief according to a release from the department. The current Police Chief Dave McCormick is hoping to retire. The post says due to the nature of this position do not contact the Ritzville Police Department, any Ritzville employees or any Ritzville elected officials regarding the application. For those who want to apply they need to contact Rachelle Harwood at WASPC.