Acting U.S. Attorney Richard Barker announced that Ray Anthony Wynecoop and Isaac Anthony Ott have been sentenced for their involvement in drug and firearm offenses in Spokane, Washington. Wynecoop, aged 24, received a 30-year prison sentence, while 23-year-old Ott was sentenced to 25 years. Both will also serve 8 years of supervised release following their imprisonment, as decided by U.S. District Judge Mary K. Dimke.
The charges originated from a series of events beginning on December 11, 2021, when Spokane Police Department (SPD) made an attempt to stop Wynecoop for a traffic violation. Fleeing the scene, Wynecoop eventually crashed his Dodge Charger, leading to his arrest. Inside the vehicle, police found firearms, heroin, and fentanyl-laced pills.
On June 26, 2022, Wynecoop and Ott engaged in multiple drive-by shootings. Armed with a pistol and a shotgun, they targeted police officers, with Wynecoop shooting one officer, who later recovered. A search revealed more firearms and roughly 10,000 fentanyl pills.
The United States Attorney's Office collaborated with local agencies to address the crimes federally. During state proceedings in April 2024, Wynecoop received a 65-year sentence, and Ott was sentenced to 40 years.
"Notwithstanding their prior felony convictions, Wynecoop and Ott illegally possessed firearms with the express purpose of murdering Spokane Police," said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard Barker. He acknowledged the dedication of all law enforcement involved.
David F. Reames from the DEA's Seattle Field Division emphasized, "Drug trafficking and gun violence too often goes hand-in-hand, as Mr. Ott and Mr. Wynecoop emphatically demonstrated."
Preston McCollam, Chief Criminal Deputy for the Spokane County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, stated, "Thanks to the quick and meaningful collaboration of local and federal partners, the Spokane community is a safer place with these two behind bars."
Spokane Police Chief Kevin Hall highlighted the support of various agencies, noting, "These lengthy sentences send a clear message: attacks on law enforcement and the endangerment of our community will be met with unwavering resolve and justice."
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Spokane County Sheriff's Office, and the Spokane Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter and Preston McCollam from the Spokane Prosecutors Office.
