Millwood, Washington – Law enforcement officers in Spokane County arrested a 48-year-old man with an extensive criminal history after an attempted burglary at a local business in Millwood. Authorities say the suspect tried to flee the scene but was quickly captured following a coordinated police response.
The incident unfolded after a business owner noticed suspicious activity through a live security camera feed and immediately contacted authorities. Deputies say the damage was limited, but the suspect now faces multiple felony and misdemeanor charges.
Incident Overview
Deputies with the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO), working alongside Spokane Valley Police, responded to a reported burglary attempt in the 9200 block of East Trent Avenue. According to investigators, a male suspect was seen attempting to break into a commercial property by damaging a window.
The business owner, who was monitoring the property remotely, alerted law enforcement as soon as the activity was detected. Officers arrived within minutes and began searching the area.
Timeline of Events
Authorities say the attempted burglary occurred during daylight hours, allowing the business owner to clearly observe the suspect’s actions on video. Upon arrival, deputies encountered the suspect outside the business.
Investigators reported that the suspect immediately attempted to flee on foot, running from officers and moving through nearby areas in an effort to evade capture. After a brief pursuit, deputies located and detained the suspect in a nearby parking lot, bringing the situation under control without further incident.
Details From Police
Following the arrest, deputies conducted a criminal history check on the suspect, identified as Lawrence D. Jones, age 48. According to SCSO, Jones has an extensive criminal background that includes more than 50 prior arrests.
Police said his record includes multiple misdemeanor and felony convictions, notably for theft-related offenses and resisting arrest. Officials confirmed that Jones was taken into custody and transported to the Spokane County Jail.
He was formally booked on the following charges:
- Burglary in the 2nd Degree
- Malicious Mischief in the 3rd Degree
- Obstructing a Law Enforcement Officer
Key Facts From the Case
- Suspect: Lawrence D. Jones
- Age: 48
- Location: 9200 block of E. Trent Avenue, Millwood
- Criminal History: 50+ prior arrests
- Charges Filed: Burglary 2nd Degree, Malicious Mischief 3rd Degree, Obstructing
- Estimated Property Damage: $300
- Arrest Location: Nearby parking lot
Witness and Business Owner Account
The business owner played a key role in the arrest by actively monitoring the security system and contacting authorities as soon as suspicious behavior was observed.
“The owner was able to see the suspect actively trying to break into the building through the security video and immediately called it in,” deputies stated in their release.
Officials noted that real-time reporting significantly improves response times and increases the chances of apprehending suspects before further damage or theft occurs.
Additional Context on Repeat Offenders
Law enforcement agencies frequently note that repeat offenders account for a disproportionate number of property crimes. Individuals with long criminal histories often reoffend shortly after release, especially in cases involving burglary and theft.
Authorities emphasize that quick reporting, visible security systems, and coordination between agencies are critical tools in preventing repeat crimes and protecting local businesses.
Safety and Crime Prevention Tips
Police encourage business owners to take proactive measures to reduce burglary risks, including:
- Installing visible security cameras and alarm systems
- Monitoring properties remotely when possible
- Reporting suspicious activity immediately
- Keeping exterior areas well-lit
- Securing windows and doors with reinforced materials
These steps not only deter criminal behavior but also assist law enforcement in responding effectively when incidents occur.
Conclusion
The arrest of Lawrence D. Jones highlights the importance of vigilant business owners and rapid police response in addressing property crime. While the damage in this case was relatively minor, authorities say the situation could have escalated without timely reporting and coordinated enforcement efforts.
As the case proceeds through the legal system, law enforcement officials continue to urge the community to remain alert and proactive in reporting suspicious activity.
If you live or work in the area and have concerns about local safety or property crime, consider sharing what precautions have worked for you. Share your experiences in the comments below.
