Spokane Valley, WA – Deputies with the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office located and recovered a stolen vehicle less than 16 hours after it was reported missing, thanks to an Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) alert. One suspect was arrested in connection with the case, authorities confirmed Tuesday morning.
According to the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, a Spokane Regional Emergency Communications (SREC) officer notified deputies of an ALPR alert around 10:40 a.m. Monday, October 22, 2025. The alert indicated a reported stolen vehicle in the 5300 block of East Sprague Avenue in Spokane Valley.
Deputies quickly located the black 2007 Infiniti near North Custer Road and initiated a traffic stop. The driver, identified as 22-year-old Lony e P. Willy, was detained without incident. According to deputies, Willy initially claimed he purchased the vehicle for $500 from an individual named “Jay,” but was unable to provide any proof or further details.
Investigators later determined the vehicle had been reported stolen the previous evening from East Dalke Avenue. During questioning, Willy allegedly admitted he found the car’s key fob, was homeless, and decided to take the vehicle to stay warm. Deputies say they also discovered suspected drug paraphernalia inside the car.
Willy was booked into the Spokane County Jail on charges of Taking a Motor Vehicle Without Permission (2nd Degree), a felony, and an existing misdemeanor warrant for Vehicle Prowling. His total bail was set at $3,000. Deputies returned the recovered Infiniti to its rightful owner.
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