Warrant Out For Hermanns

WAITSBURG - A Walla Walla judge has issued a warrant for the arrest of Adam Hermanns, who is charged with the theft of automotive components and a fire arm.

"We are actively seeking Mr. Hermanns," said Eddie Freyer, Undersheriff for Walla Walla County. "Any calls and tips related to his whereabouts will be pursued vigorously."

In addition, the sheriff's office is interested in talking to Hermanns about the Jan. 25, 2011, garage fire at the residence of his parents, Pam and Andy Hermanns. That fire is still under investigation as a possible arson case.

The warrant for Hermanns' arrest, which was issued several weeks ago, charges him with the felony offense of theft in the second degree and a misdemeanor offense of theft of a fire arm.

Freyer said though Hermanns is not considered a hardened criminal, caution is advisable around a felon in possession of a fire arm.

In April last year, Hermanns pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of possession of stolen property and was sentenced to two months in jail, following his arrest in January 2010.

Hermanns was initially charged with first-degree burglary, resisting arrest and obstructing a police officer in connection with events that occurred Jan. 2 that year in Waitsburg, when he was accused of breaking into a neighbor's house.

"We're not talking about a career criminal here," Freyer said. "But he is a wanted felon with a fire arm and should be given due caution."

Details from the theft with which Hermanns is charged this time have not been released since the case is still open.

Freyer, who believes Hermanns is in the Waitsburg area, said the case is important because of Hermanns' history in town.

"He's a criminal element in that area," he said. "He's a priority case for us."

Anyone with information that may be useful in the case can contact the Walla Walla County Sheriff's Office at 509-524-5400.