FRIDAY HARBOR, Wash. — Justin Edward James, 34, of Friday Harbor, was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including second-degree burglary, third-degree assault, resisting arrest, and theft, following an incident on January 10.
According to the probable cause statement, a resident in Friday Harbor called authorities after a suspicious male knocked on her door and asked for a person named “Claudia,” who did not live there. The man, later identified as James, was seen driving a vehicle matching the description of a missing green SUV. Authorities determined that James’ vehicle, a dark green Chevy Tahoe, had been impounded due to a DUI-related incident the previous day. The vehicle had been stolen from the impound yard, which led deputies to locate and attempt to detain James.
James, flagged for requiring two officers due to past violent behavior, fled the scene on foot after being confronted by Sheriff Eric Peter. A brief struggle occurred when James resisted arrest, leading to an altercation involving three officers. James was ultimately detained, but Sheriff Peter and one deputy suffered injuries during the struggle, including knee and ankle injuries. James sustained no injuries.
James was charged with multiple crimes and released on $10,000 bail with conditions prohibiting him from leaving the state or consuming drugs and alcohol. His arraignment is scheduled for January 27.
James has a criminal history that includes offenses such as criminal trespassing, resisting arrest, and residential burglary. Further investigation into his recent activities is ongoing.
