Grinch who Stole Leavenworth Christmas Identified

[WBHG NEWS – Chelan, WA] – The Chelan County Sheriff identified Zachary A. Soltis of Texas as the person who vandalized the Leavenworth, Washington Christmas display on 22-23 December. He is facing multiple criminal charges.

The sheriff alleges it was Soltis behind the wheel of a silver 2024 Toyota Tundra pickup truck that did donuts on the sledding hill and other areas in downtown Leavenworth, sending at least two pedestrians scrambling. During his 15 minutes of Internet fame, Soltis even drove the truck up on the sidewalk and parked in front of the gazebo in the city park, providing police with a clear view of him in the driver’s seat and the truck’s license plate.

Thanks to the Patrol Deputies’ tireless efforts, and with help from our citizens and visitors, the suspect has been identified as Zachary Soltis, who resides in Texas. There is probable cause for his arrest for Malicious Mischief 2nd Degree and Reckless Driving.

Chelan County Sheriff

After he was identified on Friday, Soltis purged his social media accounts. According to public information, he lives in Carrollton, Texas. His deleted LinkedIn page listed Toyota of North America in Carrollton, Texas, as his employer, and prior to that, he claimed he was in the United States Marine Corps as an Aviation Ordnance Specialist. It is unclear if he was driving his personal vehicle or a company vehicle at the time of the vandalism.

The Sheriff’s Office identified Soltis at the end of the day Friday, so charges are pending. Officials are working with the Chelan County prosecutor, with the sheriff’s department recommending charges of 2nd Degree Malicious Mischief, a Class C Felony, and Reckless Driving.

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