The following update is from Okanogan County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page concerning the incident on Thursday that led to the arrest of an individual for possessing a dangerous weapon on school grounds.
On 10/16/2025 at approximately 1205 hours Okanogan County Sheriff’s Communications (Dispatch) advised of a weapons offense at 24 Twin Lakes Road; Liberty Bell High School, Winthrop, WA
According to witness statements, a subject displayed a black pistol by holding it out of the driver’s side window and dangling it by the barrel. Witnesses reported that the firearm was not pointed directly at anyone. The suspect reportedly shouted, profanities during the incident. Five students came forward, three of whom visually confirmed seeing a firearm.
The alleged suspect, a young adult male from out of the area, was at the high school campus to visit his girlfriend, a student of Liberty Bell school district. Mr. Dodson had met his girlfriend in the parking lot and headed off campus for lunch, but while still on school grounds displayed a handgun out the window of his Jeep Wrangler.
Students witnessing this incident reported it to the school office and the school was placed on lock down. A description of the vehicle was broadcast to local patrols and at 1:05 pm officers located Dodson’s jeep on Twisp River Rd. Dodson and his girlfriend were detained while the investigation continued.
Okanogan County Deputy Tapia questioned Dodson about the firearm, to which Dodson denied having a weapon on his person or in the vehicle. Dodson stated it was only a black holster that he displayed.
Based on the witness statements Dodson was arrested for 2 counts of RCW9.41.280.1A possessing dangerous weapons on school facilities and 4 counts weapons apparently capable of producing bodily harm – unlawful carrying or handling. Dodson was booked into the Okanogan County Jail. Dodson’s girlfriend was with him voluntarily and released to a responsible adult.
Dodson’s jeep was impounded as evidence for pending search warrant.
