WINLOCK, WA — A 43-year-old Longview man, Paul King, was arrested on Saturday, June 28 by Winlock police and charged with second-degree identity theft and driving with a suspended license, a gross misdemeanor.
According to charging documents filed in Lewis County Superior Court, King was pulled over within Winlock city limits after officers suspected he was driving with a suspended license. A Department of Licensing photo confirmed the license status, prompting the traffic stop.
Upon approaching the vehicle, officers noticed movement inside. King had allegedly moved to the backseat and falsely claimed that one of the passengers was driving. He initially identified himself as “Eric King” but later admitted his true identity when challenged by the officer.
Further investigation revealed Paul King’s extensive criminal history, including multiple convictions for obstruction, false statements, criminal impersonation, motor vehicle theft, and over 10 prior charges related to driving with a suspended license.
Judge Andrew Toynbee set bail at $10,000 unsecured, noting King has not had any felony convictions or failures to appear in the past five years. Still, his criminal background raised concern.
Second-degree identity theft is a Class C felony, carrying a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. The charge for driving with a suspended license can result in up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine.
King is scheduled to be arraigned on July 10 in Lewis County Superior Court.
