RICHLAND, Wash. – According to a post from the Richland Police Department, there has been a recent uptick in vehicle prowls in the area.
On January 27, RPD announced they arrested one male in connection to a vehicle prowl incident that occurred at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of SR 240 and Kingsgate Way.
Richland PD were able to track down the man with items he stole from the car and used video surveillance from the gas station to confirm it was the suspect.
The suspect was also found to be in possession of illegal drugs. According to RPD, the drugs found are suspected to be Fentanyl.
The suspect was apprehended with stolen property valued at $1,300, making this theft a felony.
According to RPD, all stolen items were returned to the victim.
The man was booked into the Benton County Jail for felony theft, drug possession and other charges.
In response to the recent vehicle prowls, RPD recommends community members do the following:
Remove valuable items from their cars, including items that may appear to have value such as empty duffle bags and backpacks. Lock vehicle doors. Although leaving the doors unlocked may save the vehicle from having a window smashed, a person opening a car door gets less attention than someone breaking a window. Those who are victims are advised to call non-emergency dispatch at (509)628-0333.
