KALALOCH — Olympic National Park rangers — with the help of Jefferson County sheriff’s deputies — arrested three Grays Harbor County men for allegedly breaking into vehicles and taking credit cards, a necklace and other items at Kalaloch and Ruby Beach on July 25.
Two break-ins were reported at Kalaloch. A third was reported at Ruby Beach.
A witness of one of the break-ins provided rangers with a description of one of the suspects and the licence number of the tan Ford Focus he was riding in.
Park rangers requested backup from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and pulled over the suspect at South Beach.
Jefferson County Sheriff’s Sgt. Ben Stanford said those arrested were Jason Carlson, 32, of Hoquiam, Matthew Price, 39, of Aberdeen, and Shaun Jones, 43, of Ocean Shores.
Price and Jones are being held in the Jefferson County jail on investigation of second-degree vehicle prowling, second- and third-degree theft and possession of another’s identification. Each is being held on $5,000 bail.
Carlson posted bail last week, Stanford said.
Park rangers recovered credit cards that were reported missing from the Ruby Beach break-in and a necklace reported missing from Kalaloch.
Additional items reported stolen were later discovered along U.S. Highway 101, park officials said.
“National park rangers are responsible for not only protecting and preserving our natural resources and landscapes, but also for providing for the safety and well-being of thousands of visitors,” said Karen Gustin, Olympic National Park superintendent, in a statement.
“This is a testament to the dedication of Olympic’s law enforcement professionals, as well as the importance of thorough police work, quick thinking and effective coordination between agencies.”
Colin Smith, Olympic National Park chief ranger, said vehicle break-ins and thefts are not common at the park.
“To protect against the possibility of theft, visitors should avoid leaving valuables in their cars,” Smith said.
“If you must leave a purse or similar high-value item in your car, place it in the trunk or out of view to deter thieves.”
________
Reporter Rob Ollikainen can be reached at 360-417-3537 or at rob.ollikainen@peninsuladailynews.com.
