Burglary suspects arrested after homeowner spots intrusion on security camera

WENATCHEE — A man and woman were arrested earlier this month after allegedly burglarizing a home in the 6700 block of Forest Ridge Road while the homeowner, who was out of town, observed the incident live through security footage.

Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison said deputies responded to the residence at approximately 11:50 a.m. on July 2 following a report from the homeowner, who stated they saw individuals entering and exiting the home via a remote security system.

According to the report, the homeowner noticed that a cleaning service arrived at the house around 1:30 a.m. — well outside of typical business hours. Video surveillance showed a male and female removing personal belongings from the residence and wearing some of the homeowner’s clothing. The pair had allegedly been at the property for more than 10 hours and were still present when deputies arrived.

Deputies contacted the suspects, identified as Steven C. Leighton, 36, of East Wenatchee, and Alexis C. Pipkin, 34, also of East Wenatchee. Investigators determined that Pipkin was employed by the cleaning service but was not scheduled to be at the home. Leighton was not affiliated with the company.

Both individuals were arrested on suspicion of residential burglary. A search warrant was later executed on their vehicle, where deputies recovered clothing and other items reported stolen from the home.

Leighton and Pipkin were booked into the Chelan County Regional Justice Center on charges of residential burglary under RCW 9A.52.025 and second-degree theft under RCW 9A.56.040. Additionally, Pipkin faces a charge of second-degree identity theft under RCW 9.35.030 after allegedly identifying herself as her sister during the arrest.