SPokane, Washington – The grim tale of Ray Anthony Wynecoop, who attempted to murder a Spokane Police Officer and traffic drugs, took another harrowing turn as the defendant pleaded guilty. United States Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref announced that Wynecoop admitted to Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, Discharge of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
Waldref revealed the details of two chilling incidents involving Wynecoop. The first occurred when SPD attempted to stop his white Dodge Charger for no license plates; instead, he drove recklessly to evade them. Wynecoop’s car was later found in a crash, and during a search, police uncovered a loaded 9mm pistol, another .380 semi-automatic, heroin laced pills, and fentanyl.
The second event was even more sinister: On June 26, 2022, Wynecoop aimed to kill a SPD officer. Alongside an accomplice, they followed an officer before opening fire, critically wounding the lawman. The shooter’s actions were caught on tape by his own companion. Wynecoop was sentenced to over 65 years in state court for this attack.
U.S. Attorney Waldref condemned Wynecoop’s actions, noting, “Mr Wynecoop, a felon who was not allowed to possess firearms, went on a violent criminal spree.” Assistant Special Agent in Charge Ron Deist emphasized the importance of federal collaboration with local and state agencies in such cases.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, and the SPD led the investigation, while Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter prosecuted the case. Wynecoop’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for September 25, 2024.
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Key Facts
- State: Washington
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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