Judge turns Thompkins down
By Terry Murry on Wednesday, October 6th, 2021 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WALLA WALLA – A judge has denied a motion to dismiss charges against a Pendleton man arrested after allegedly organizing a group attack this summer in Walla Walla.
According to court documents, Charles Thompkins Jr., 64, sent a letter to Walla Walla County Superior Court Judge Brandon L. Johnson requesting the charges against him be dropped. Thompkins claimed that a violation of the 14-day rule concerning his arraignment had occurred and that his constitutional rights were violated.
Thompkins, who has been representing himself, has pled not guilty to charges of first-degree robbery, three counts of first-degree assault, first-degree burglary, criminal mischief, and harassment.
He allegedly organized a large group on July 5 to join him in going to Walla Walla to confront people he claims had his stolen SUV in their possession. Shots were fired during the confrontation and a fight broke out that left three people injured.
Thompkins is currently being held in the Walla Walla County Jail on $100,000 bond and his trial is set for Oct. 19.
