Breaking the Law While Breaking the Law While Breaking the Law

Teamwork between law enforcement agencies removed a dangerous, armed felon off the streets of Tri-Cities earlier this morning. The full story is on the Kennewick PD Facebook page.

The first report referred to a driver passed out in a car and it was disclosed the vehicle was stolen, the driver was a felon and there was a loaded handgun on his lap in the car.

Kennewick officers assisted Benton County Sheriff's deputies with the stolen vehicle call near 19th and Beech St. in Kennewick.

Deputies found a stolen Honda in the roadway, with a male passed out in the driver's seat and on the male's lap was a firearm.

The suspect was called out of the vehicle, and as he was exiting the ride, doing as he was told, he was spooked by the K9 officer licking his chops and began to sprint away at top speed.

Various "tools" were used by officers to get the male to halt, including a less lethal projectile, but to no avail, as the suspect refused to comply and ditched the cops by jumping over a fence.

Working in tandem, officers and deputies searched the area and received a tip from a very alert neighbor who spotted the suspect in his backyard. He wisely did not confront the individual, but called for help. Law enforcement officers noted the citizen's proper procedure by staying away from the suspect and avoiding any provocation of a confrontation. Just call for help.

Now, with a swarm of officers and deputies, the suspect, 21-year old Angel Flores was collared and booked by the Benton County Sheriff's Office into the Benton County Justice Center for possession of a stolen vehicle, and felon in possession of a firearm.

KPD notes that criminals know no boundaries and because they often bounce between jurisdictions, it is vital to work with other agencies to increase public safety. Arrests of this nature often require many officers to work towards a safe resolution. Working with their partners to hold criminals accountable is a priority. KPD appreciates the public's patience as the officers and deputies worked through the situation. If you find yourself unintentionally involved like the alert citizen earlier today, do like they did, avoid the confrontation, be a great witness partner and dial 9-1-1.