Boise Greenbelt sees spike in violent crimes
Published at | Updated at
BOISE — The Boise Greenbelt experienced a spike in violent crime this last week, with a murder on July 6, and an attempted kidnapping on Saturday.
Known for its scenic walkways, the Boise Greenbelt is a common place for residents of Treasure Valley to walk, bicycle and more. The events of the past week, however, have prompted Boise Police to increase patrols of the area, according to resources posted to the Boise Police Department’s Facebook page.
In addition, the Boise Police Department is urging residents to take these precautions while using the Greenbelt:
- Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings
- Walk, run or bike with others whenever possible
- Avoid wearing headphones or anything that limits your ability to hear or observe your surroundings
- If you see something suspicious, say something and report it to police
The Boise Police Department spent last week asking the community for any information about the killing on July 6, and made an arrest Friday.
Ross Wardlaw is reportedly being charged with the murder of Jordan Harbst, according to court documents.
According to KTVB, police say Wardlaw attacked Harbst with a fixed blade knife and that there was no evidence of a confrontation. Prosecutors say the victim was ambushed and had no opportunity for self-defense.
KTVB reports Wardlaw told police the incident was a result of “generalized paranoia” and that Wardlaw believed that people riding scooters were “after him.”
Saturday night saw the Greenbelt’s second case of violence in a week’s span. Javier Galvin Ortiz is being charged with attempted kidnapping in the second degree and aggravated assault, both felonies, according to documents.
CBS2 reports dispatch received a report just before 11 p.m. of someone screaming on the north side of the Greenbelt near South Ferguson Street. Two nearby residents reported the scream. While one individual called, the other went out to check and saw Ortiz assaulting the victim before the resident intervened. Ortiz allegedly fled the scene, and police found and arrested him west of the Broadway Bridge in Julia Davis Park.
Both men have been appointed public defenders. The Idaho State Public Defender’s Office does not comment on active cases.
Wardlaw is held without bond and will appear in court for a preliminary hearing July 20.
KTVB reports Ortiz’s bond has been set to $1 million. Ortiz will appear in court for a preliminary hearing July 27.
Although Wardlaw and Ortiz have been charged with a crime, it does not necessarily mean they committed it. Everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty.