Husband, wife in custody for alleged custodial abuse, assault of adult

By on Wednesday, January 29th, 2025 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

DAYTON, Washington โ€“ A married couple from Dayton, Washington are in custody for first-degree criminal mistreatment of an adult and second-degree assault.

Columbia County Prosecuting Attorney Dale Slack confirmed his office received a report regarding allegations of severe custodial abuse on Jan. 20 from the Columbia County Sheriffโ€™s Office.

Slack clarified that the alleged victim is an adult, not a minor, and stated there is no evidence of human trafficking, despite public claims.

โ€œWild speculation and false embellishment of an already horrific set of alleged facts does nothing to help the alleged victim or the course of justice, brings unwanted and offensive attention to the alleged victim, and frankly may create issues for trying the case should it go to trial,โ€ Slack said.

Records show Michael Alexander Cook, and his wife Teresa Cook, are being held in the Walla Walla County Jail. Michaelโ€™s bond is $250,000 and Teresaโ€™s is $200,000. Their arraignment is scheduled for Feb. 5.

Slack added special interviewers/investigators from the Walla Walla Police Department, as well as numerous medical personnel were involved in the immediate care of the alleged victim.