Spokane: SPD Arrest Male Suspected of Burglarizing Home in the Evacuation Zone
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~ Spokane, WA - A recent burglary in the Five Mile neighborhood has been solved thanks to the quick actions of a resident and the diligent work of the Spokane Police Department.

According to Officer T. Leming, Public Information Officer for SPD, on August 8th, 2026, a resident reported their home had been burglarized sometime between August 1st and August 8th while they were evacuated due to an emergency. Officers responded to the call and were able to obtain video footage from the victim, which helped identify the suspect as a male.

The victim also took matters into their own hands by posting the video on a popular social media platform. This led to tips being provided by members of the community who recognized the suspect in the video. These tips were then passed on to officers by the victim.

On August 13th, officers located and arrested Lawrence C. Moss near Northtown Mall for residential burglary. He was booked into Spokane County Jail.

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During this time of evacuations, SPD was made aware of growing concerns about burglaries in level 3 evacuation zones. As soon as it was deemed safe to enter these areas, the department fully staffed dedicated patrols to work within them. Officers worked 12-hour shifts both day and night, patrolling affected neighborhoods by vehicle and foot to show a police presence and identify any suspicious activity.

In addition, Major Crimes Detectives were deployed to these neighborhoods. They went door-to-door contacting homeowners and neighbors while also following up on reports of suspicious activity and burglaries.

One detective's presence proved crucial when they noticed a wide-open front door while on patrol. With permission from the homeowner, they entered and cleared the house of any suspicious activity before securing it.

This deployment also resulted in two additional arrests for crimes committed within evacuation zones. Chad D. Taylor (51) was arrested for Criminal Trespass 2nd Degree and Making or Having Burglary tools, while Neil R. Vanvoorst (42) was arrested for Criminal Trespass 2nd Degree.

The SPD has credited the quick response and collaboration of the community and officers for the successful resolution of this burglary case. The department also urges residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity in their neighborhoods.

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