Darren Birden, 55, was taken into custody following a brief standoff on January 7. The arrest came after Birden was identified as a suspect in a kidnapping and robbery that occurred on December 17. The incident took place in the early hours of the morning, with Birden and 34-year-old Leah Graham allegedly committing the felonies in Pasco.
Birden fled into an apartment following the crime, leading to a short standoff with authorities. The SWAT team, Metro Drug Task Force, and Street Crimes Detectives were called in to assist, eventually leading to Birden’s surrender.
Birden was booked into the Benton County Jail on charges of first-degree kidnapping and first-degree robbery. Authorities are continuing the search for Leah Graham, who remains at large. The victim of the kidnapping reportedly escaped and is safe.
The Kennewick Police Department continues to ask the public for any information related to Graham’s whereabouts and the ongoing investigation. Authorities have warned that both suspects are considered armed and dangerous.
