More details on Police Response in Downtown Bellingham on Tuesday

BPD Patrol VehiclePhoto byPublic Domain

BELLINGHAM, WA — At approximately 7:15 a.m. on July 23, 2024, Bellingham Police Department (BPD) officers responded to a report of harassment in the 200 block of Unity St. A caller reported that a male was allegedly harassing and following a female. The initial officer on the scene attempted to engage the male, in conversation to stop him from following the female. the male, who refused to speak with the officer, got into his vehicle and departed the scene.

The victim informed officers that male was a former co-worker who had separated from Risk Solutions United (RSU) a month prior. Since his departure, male allegedly sent the victim unwanted text messages, phone calls, and emails. Despite the victim's requests for him to cease contact and blocking him on all communication platforms, the male continued to reach out. The victim was in the process of applying for a court order to prohibit further contact. The victim had previously reported that male followed her during her work rounds after leaving RSU.

After speaking with officers, the victim left Unity St. to return to her work office. At 7:54 a.m., BPD received a 911 call reporting an assault with a crowbar at the RSU office located in the Commercial St. parking garage. the male allegedly broke into the RSU office with a crowbar and swung it at the victim's head. The victim raised her hands to protect her head, resulting in the crowbar striking her palms. She then managed to grab the crowbar and pull it away from the male.

The male suspect allegedly used a rope to tie the office door to nearby lockers, preventing the victim from leaving and officers from accessing the office. Despite unlocking the door with a key fob, officers found it was secured with a rope. Realizing the imminent danger to the victim, one officer forcibly opened the door by breaking the handle to which the rope was tied. Officers entered and issued commands to the male, who allegedly refused to comply. he was subsequently taken into custody using a Taser.

The suspect was arrested on probable cause for stalking, second-degree assault, first-degree burglary, unlawful imprisonment, third-degree malicious mischief, and harassment. He was transported and booked into Whatcom County Jail without further incident. The victim reported pain in her hands but declined medical attention.

*All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law