PORT TOWNSEND — Three people were arrested for investigation of burglary and other charges in two separate incidents last week.
Port Townsend police investigated a report at about 6 a.m. Friday that a person was running in and out of a welding supply business, Central Welding, on Park Avenue and loading welders into a vehicle.
Port Townsend police arrived in the area and stopped the vehicle as it was leaving the scene.
Justin Francis Hess, 36, and Amanda Sue Wright, 33, both of Tacoma, were taken into custody after police found some $11,000 of equipment in their vehicle.
Hess was arrested for investigation of malicious mischief in the second degree, theft in the first degree, and burglary in the second degree.
Wright was arrested for investigation of malicious mischief in the second degree, violation of uniform controlled substance act; theft in the first degree and burglary in the second degree.
Both are being held without bond in the Jefferson County jail. Charges are expected to be filed Monday by the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
At 10:45 p.m. Thursday, Justin Schield, 22, residence unknown, was arrested for investigation of residential burglary and interference with a health care facility after police were called to a residence on San Juan Avenue
His case was forwarded to Port Townsend City Prosecutor Chris Ashcraft for prosecution.
The homeowner had said that a man was pounding on the windows and door and when he answered the door, the man yelled at him.
Police said Schield threatened them and threw himself on the ground. Officers placed him in the patrol car and took him to Jefferson Healthcare hospital for evaluation. There, he continued to yell and make vulgar statements to officers, they said.
Port Townsend Police spokesperson Keppie Keplinger said police acted quickly in these two situations to stop both burglaries.
“At this time of year, there are all kinds of scams and attempts to burgle homes and businesses. They seem to increase over the holidays. It’s a good reminder to always be aware of your surroundings and if you see something that doesn’t look right, say something.”
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Jefferson County Editor/Reporter Jeannie McMacken can be reached at 360-385-2335 or at jmcmacken@peninsuladailynews.com.
