On March 23, an alert Bothell resident wasted no time calling 911 to report some suspicious activity happening in the 18300 block of 96th Lane.
The caller told dispatchers she heard some unusual noises and looked out her home’s window. That’s when she spotted a man with a crowbar starting to remove a vehicle's license plates, then rummaging through the SUV's interior.
It turns out, the vehicle had just been stolen from a school parking lot in Monroe.
When officers arrived, they spotted the suspect, who immediately took off on foot into a wooded area. Within five minutes, officers caught up and had the suspect under arrest. In his pockets, officers found a stolen debit card, drivers license, methamphetamine and 30 pills (which may contain fentanyl), and other drug paraphernalia.
Officers then learned the suspect was already wanted with a felony warrant for escape with the Department of Corrections. He was booked in the King County Jail, where he has additional pending charges from other recent arrests related to auto theft.
The 35 year old man also has several felony convictions and several dozen arrests across Western Washington, linked to auto theft, possession of a stolen vehicle, burglary and other crimes.
Officers are grateful to the 911 caller for their quick action. For the arresting officer, it was a great way to end a long day on patrol.
“Feels pretty good to actually return a stolen vehicle and take someone into custody for it, especially a prolific offender,” said Officer Makayla Phillips.