Walla Walla police arrest suspect after 24-hour crime spree

By Dan Thesman on Wednesday, April 15th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

WALLA WALLA – The Walla Walla Police Department arrested a 41-year-old man Wednesday following a 24-hour crime spree that included an alleged residential sexual assault and multiple burglaries.

Joseph John Richter was taken into custody after officers found him inside a building on East Alder Street. Authorities say the crime string began Tuesday afternoon when Richter allegedly stole a bicycle on North 13th Avenue and intimidated the owner.

Early Wednesday, a 66-year-old woman reported Richter broke into her home and sexually assaulted her in her bed. Richter fled but was captured shortly after a nearby burglary alarm was triggered.

Richter faces numerous charges, including indecent liberties, robbery, and burglary. WWPD states this is Richter’s sixth arrest or summons in Walla Walla within the past year. He is currently being held at the Walla Walla County Jail.

File photo