Two repeat offenders arrested in connection with La Grande robbery and assault
By Joe Hathaway on Monday, August 26th, 2024 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
LA GRANDE — Two La Grande residents, both repeat offenders well known to local law enforcement, were arrested following an August 17th incident in which a couple was pepper-sprayed and robbed in a McDonald’s parking lot.
Betsy Rose Willis, 35, and Jace Darrell Clark, 32, were taken into custody by the La Grande Police Department on August 22 after authorities responded to a report of their whereabouts. The arrests stemmed from an altercation that occurred on the 17th at approximately 9:01 p.m.
According to police, Willis and Clark confronted a couple who were sitting in their car at McDonald’s, demanding money that was allegedly owed to them. When the couple refused, Willis and Clark allegedly assaulted the pair, pepper-sprayed them, and stole two bags of their belongings, including approximately $40 worth of fentanyl powder. The total value of the stolen items was estimated at $200.
Willis and Clark fled the scene before officers arrived. The victims were treated for minor injuries at the scene, including effects from the pepper spray.
Clark was arrested on charges including robbery in the second degree, assault in the third and fourth degree, criminal conspiracy, theft in the second degree, unlawful use of mace, and disorderly conduct. He was also held on a detainer.
Willis was charged with robbery in the second degree, strangulation, assault in the third degree, criminal conspiracy, theft in the second degree, unlawful use of mace, and disorderly conduct.
Both remain in custody, and the case is ongoing.
