On the evening of March 29, 2024, deputies from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of burglary in progress in the 51000 block of Ash Rd in La Pine. The deputies, aided by troopers from the Oregon State Police, successfully thwarted the burglary and apprehended all suspects involved.
Upon arrival at the scene, deputies found multiple individuals inside the residence, actively removing items and loading them into a vehicle parked in the driveway. The deputies immediately established a perimeter around the property, effectively containing the situation.
One of the suspects, identified as Kameron Michael, attempted to flee in a vehicle but was apprehended by law enforcement during a traffic stop as he exited the driveway. Meanwhile, two additional suspects, Ruth Michael and Joseph Fitch, remained inside the residence.
With the assistance of K-9 Vinnie and his handler, deputies initiated a search of the property. Joseph Fitch was apprehended without incident after deputies breached the front door of the residence.
Despite repeated announcements for the remaining suspect to surrender, Ruth Michael remained non-compliant and attempted to conceal herself under a pile of clothing. K-9 Vinnie located and apprehended Ruth Michael, who sustained a bite during the encounter. She was then taken into custody by deputies on the scene.
Medical personnel evaluated Ruth Michael for injuries sustained from the dog bite. Subsequently, all three suspects were transported to the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Jail and booked on charges of Burglary in the First Degree and Criminal Trespass in the First Degree.
The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to the Oregon State Police for their collaboration during the investigation.
No additional suspects are outstanding at this time
All suspect are believed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law
Source: DCSO
