On January 7, 2022, Kenneth James, 41, of Coralville, Iowa, was shot as he was sitting in
his car in a parking lot in the 600 block of West Adams Street in Washington, Iowa.
As a result of the investigation law enforcement learned Jaden Miller, 17, of Columbus
Junction and Mya Wright, 19, of Iowa City conspired to commit a robbery against James
after inviting James to Washington for a drug deal. During the course of the attempted
robbery, Miller shot James one time in the torso.
Both Wright and Miller were arrested on Thursday, January 27, and face charges of
Attempt to Commit Murder and Robbery First Degree. Both charges are Class B Felonies
and may be punishable by up to 25 years in prison on each charge. Both remain in
custody on $500,000 cash only bond.
The investigation continues and additional charges are possible.
The Washington Police Department and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation
were assisted in the investigation by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office,
Washington County Attorney’s Office, and the Columbus Junction Police Department.
NOTE: A criminal charge is merely an accusation, and the person charged is presumed
innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.