PASCO, WA – Detectives with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office have arrested a suspect connected to a series of hay thefts reported across rural areas of the county in recent months.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Iriankis Martinez-Yera was taken into custody on charges of Trafficking in Stolen Property following an investigation into multiple thefts affecting local farmers and landowners.
Deputies initially encountered Martinez-Yera last week around 1 a.m. when he was found parked near a haystack in a remote area. He was arrested at the scene for criminal trespass. As the investigation progressed, detectives gathered evidence allegedly linking him to the illegal distribution of stolen hay, leading to additional charges.
Officials say Franklin County has seen a rise in agricultural thefts, particularly involving hay, over the past several months. The Sheriff’s Office stated it is increasing patrols and continuing investigative efforts to deter further incidents.
Residents in rural areas are encouraged to use game cameras, install proper lighting, and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.
Anyone with information related to recent hay thefts is asked to contact the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office at 509-545-3501 or non-emergency dispatch at 509-628-0333.
