Serving Whitman County since 1877
Serving Whitman County since 1877
He will not face criminal charges
COLFAX — A Tekoa man is receiving mental health aid instead of facing criminal charges in Whitman County Superior Court.
Ryan G. Keller, 31, was arrested on March 30 after he allegedly resisted Whitman County deputies and assaulted his grandmother. He was arrested for two counts of harassment – threats to kill, two counts of assault in the fourth degree – domestic violence, and resisting arrest.
“I declined to file charges in this matter … He was presenting with some pretty significant mental health issues,” Whitman County Senior Deputy Prosecutor Tessa Scholl. “We do not file charges once they’re detained (for mental health care). Speaking with the victims, they agreed that what he needed was treatment.”
Keller was ordered to be taken to the Whitman County Hospital at the direction of Palouse River Counseling “to initiate the civil commitment process,” according to April 2 court records.
There are several examinations over a few weeks to determine if he can be released or remain in custody for further mental health care.
Prosecutor Denis Tracy said people suffering from mental health issues are falling into the criminal justice system because it is the only means of protecting others from harm.
“It’s a terrible problem and we struggle with it. People with mental health issues should not be in jail,” he said. “On the other hand, society has to have some protections for people, who are not suffering from mental illness, that need to be able to live their lives in peace and not have their property destroyed or be assaulted.”
The victims were granted a protection order to avoid contact should he be released.
The deputy prosecutor consulted with Keller’s family and victims.
“They’re very familiar and this is exactly what they wanted to see happen,” said Scholl.
Bill Stevenson is the former editor of the Whitman County Gazette, Colfax Daily Bulletin and Franklin Connection. He has nearly 30 years of journalism experience covering news in Eastern Washington.
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