Scrap metal thefts continue, sheriff asks witnesses to be careful

The theft of scrap metal continues to plague Adams County as sheriff’s deputies work with victims and witnesses to resolve the growing number of cases. Sheriff Doug Barger said the agency has taken 25 scrap metal related calls for service in the eastern half of the county since Nov. 1. As a result seven arrests have been made on a variety of charges including burglary, theft, possession of marijuana and criminal trespass.

Of the 25 calls, Barger said eight were for suspicious circumstances. Those cases, he said, have not been solved.

Barger said having good witnesses is the key to making arrests. He also cautions local residents to be careful when opting to follow a possible suspect.

On Saturday, Dec. 31, at 12:17 a.m., a landowner reported a trespassing incident in the area of Rosenoff Road and Deal Road. The landowner then followed the suspect vehicle on what became a wild chase. The suspect eventually made their way to Interstate 90 and took off westbound at speeds up to 100 miles per hour. The landowner continued to follow.

When the suspect crossed the median and began driving at 100 mph eastbound, the landowner continued his pursuit.

When deputies were able to stop the suspect vehicle, they arrested James Qwyn, 40, of Moses Lake. He was charged with reckless driving, possession of methamphetamine, carrying a loaded firearm in a vehicle and criminal trespass in the second degree.

“Landowners have been fantastic about calling us,” Barger said. “I just want to caution them to be safe about it. Be a good witness, get us a car description and a license plate. Follow at a safe distance and speed.”

The sheriff’s office has increased patrols in the rural area as a result of the increased metal thefts.