Two repeat offenders arrested in connection with robbery and assault in La Grande

THE BIG – Two La Grande residents, both repeat offenders well known to local law enforcement, were arrested following an Aug. 17 incident in which a couple was pepper sprayed and robbed in a McDonald's parking lot.

Betsy Rose Willis, 35, and Jace Darrell Clark, 32, were taken into custody by La Grande police on August 22 after authorities responded to a report of their whereabouts. The arrests stemmed from an altercation that occurred on August 17 at approximately 9:01 p.m.

According to police, Willis and Clark confronted a couple sitting in their car outside McDonald's and allegedly demanded money they were owed. When the couple refused, Willis and Clark allegedly attacked the couple, sprayed them with pepper spray and stole two bags full of belongings, including fentanyl powder valued at about $40. The total value of the stolen items was estimated at $200.

Willis and Clark fled the scene before police arrived. The victims were treated at the scene for minor injuries, including the effects of pepper spray.

Clark was arrested for second-degree robbery, third- and fourth-degree assault, criminal conspiracy, second-degree theft, unauthorized use of batons and disturbing the peace. He was also taken into custody.

Willis was charged with second-degree robbery, strangulation, third-degree assault, criminal conspiracy, second-degree theft, unauthorized use of batons and disorderly conduct.

Both remain in custody and the proceedings are still ongoing.