Suspect in April 22 kidnapping, pursuit pleads not guilty
By Dan Thesman on Wednesday, May 15th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WALLA WALLA – Stephan Lee Cleveland, 26, of Walla Walla entered a not guilty plea Monday afternoon and made no statements during arraignment in Walla Walla County Superior Court.
A total of 13 charges have been filed against Cleveland following the April 22 kidnapping which began in Burbank and involved a three-year-old child, plus the pursuit that followed which ended near Umatilla.
Walla Walla Assistant City Attorney June Riley, who was appointed special prosecutor to this case, said Cleveland’s jury trial is scheduled to begin June 17. However, Riley believes the trial will likely start later due to all that has to happen before the trial.
Cleveland was arrested April 26 in Walla Walla County after attempting to elude law enforcement.
