Othello man arrested for arson

OTHELLO – A local man was arrested Thursday, Aug. 31, after allegedly attempting to light a trailer on fire.

Isabel Junior Rocha III, 38, of Othello, was booked into the Franklin County Jail at about 6:53 a.m. Thursday, jail records show. As of press time, he remained behind bars without bail.

He is being held on charges of fist-degree arson, harassment and resisting arrest on a contract with Adams County, records show.

Rocha was arrested early Thursday morning after deputies dispatched for a disconnected 911 call determined it had originated in the 2200 block of West Rainier Road, records show.

During their investigation, deputies contacted Rocha, who had an outstanding warrant issues by Othello Municipal Court.

Investigators also learned Rocha had allegedly attempted to light a trailer on fire, records show.

When deputies tried to arrest Rocha, he refused to leave his house.

Deputy Brian Phillips and his K9 partner “Nado,” were called to the scene to assist, records show, noting Rocha then surrendered before Nado was deployed.

After Rocha’s arrest, deputies located evidence connecting the suspect to the alleged arson, records show.

“We want to thank Othello Police Department for their assistance in this investigation,” Sheriff Dale Wagner said after the arrest. “Great teamwork!”