Man arrested for allegedly flying drone over Walla Walla University dormitories
By Dan Thesman on Thursday, July 10th, 2025 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
COLLEGE PLACE – A lengthy investigation by the College Place Police Department has led to the arrest of Ira Ross Wright, 60, of College Place. He was taken into custody Tuesday and booked into the Walla Walla County Jail on two counts of voyeurism in the first degree.
Wright is accused of illegally flying a drone around Conrad Hall and Foreman Hall, the women’s dormitories at Walla Walla University dating back to December 2024. CPPD said that recently a crashed drone recovered by Walla Walla University security provided the information needed for detectives to recover data used to identify Wright.
Images recovered from the drone revealed individuals engaged in private activities. Images included the women’s dormitories and neighboring homes.
“This behavior is exceptionally disturbing,” CPPD Chief Troy Tomaras said. “Individuals have an expectation of privacy within their homes.”
A search warrant was served at Wright’s residence, and several data storage devices were recovered. Detectives will review for the potential of additional victims and/or charges.
Wright was released on his own recognizance following Wednesday’s first court appearance. His arraignment is scheduled for July 21.
Photo via Google Maps of Walla Walla University’s Foreman Hall and Conrad Hall.
