Alleged leader of group attack wants charges dismissed

By Terry Murry on Monday, May 15th, 2023 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

WALLA WALLA – A hearing is schedule today (Monday) at 1:30 p.m. in Walla Walla County Superior Court on a Pendleton man’s motion to have the charges against him dismissed without prejudice.

Charles Thompkins Jr., 64, of Pendleton, was arrested after allegedly organizing a large group to arm themselves and travel to Walla Walla to confront people he claims stole a vehicle from him in July of 2021.

During the confrontation shots were fired and a fight broke out which resulted in three people being injured.

Thompkins, who has been representing himself, has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree robbery, three counts of first-degree assault, first-degree burglary, criminal mischief, and harassment.

Walla Walla County Prosecuting Attorney Gabe Acosta said the motion to dismiss all charges appears to be tied to Thompkins’ affidavit of fact which was filed May 3. Acosta said he has not responded to Thompkins about the affidavit in writing.