OSP investigates a weekend crime spree
By Terry Murry on Monday, January 9th, 2023 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories Eastern/Southeast Oregon News Eastern/Southeast Oregon Top Stories
PENDLETON – The Oregon State Police acknowledges it has an active investigation into several crimes created in multiple jurisdictions over the weekend. They are looking for Joey Merritt, also known as Joey Nathan Ortega
“We have an unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and burglary investigations against Mr. Merritt,” Lt. Karl Farber said.
The crimes involved stealing vehicles or items in Richland, Washington, Union County, Grant County, and southern Umatilla County, including an RV and a pickup truck. While the suspect is armed, Farber said Merritt is a greater danger to law enforcement officers than he is to the general public.
If anyone can give OSP any information about Merritt aka Ortega, Farber asks that they call 541-278-4090 or contact 911. OSP is not releasing any more information because the investigation is active.
