Crime & Safety
Adams County, WA Graffiti Investigation Leads to Gun Arrest
Othello, WA – A citizen’s report of graffiti near Othello helped investigators identify a suspect and vehicle before deputies arrested a 26 year old man who allegedly possessed a firearm despite being
By Lauren Beckett · 2026-10-03T13:25:48.366Z
Othello, WA – A citizen’s report of graffiti near Othello helped investigators identify a suspect and vehicle before deputies arrested a 26 year old man who allegedly possessed a firearm despite being a convicted felon, authorities said.
According to the Adams County Sheriff ’s Office, a citizen witnessed someone applying graffiti to a fence near West June Street and South Andes Road on Thursday, Oct. 1. The witness photographed a vehicle believed to be involved and gave deputies a description of the suspect.
Later that evening, deputies learned Othello police were responding to a separate graffiti report at Taggares Park. Officers arrested a juvenile during that investigation, according to the sheriff’s office.
Deputies said a vehicle associated with the earlier graffiti incident had also been at the park but left before officers could contact its driver.
Othello police later located the vehicle within the city and notified deputies.
Authorities said deputies contacted 26 year old Dario Ochoa Jr. of Othello, who allegedly matched the description provided by the witness earlier in the day.
Deputies detained Ochoa during the investigation and allegedly discovered a firearm in his possession. The sheriff’s office said Ochoa is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms.
Ochoa was arrested and booked into jail on allegations of unlawful possession of a firearm and third degree malicious mischief.
The sheriff’s office said the investigation remains ongoing and additional follow up may occur. Authorities credited the citizen’s report and cooperation between deputies and Othello police with assisting the investigation.
The charges are allegations. Ochoa is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.