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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Sirens & Gavels

Police search for murder victim’s cell phone

Police are searching for the cell phone of a man found murdered in the Dishman Hills Natural Area late last month.

Spokane County Sheriff's detectives hope information from AT & T on the time and location of calls made since Douglas J. Klages' murder will help them solidify their case against Roland E. Benton, who was arrested for first-degree murder last week.

Benton, who's in jail on $500,000 bond, is to be arraigned May 18.

Klages used his cell phone to call his parents the day before he died.

"At the time the body was discovered, the victim's pants pockets had been turned inside out, as if someone had gone through them," according to a search warrant filed today in Superior Court. "(This detective) believes that it is possible that the cell phone, as well as other items, may have been taken from the victim at the time of his murder."

A Rosauers receipt found with Klages helped police identify Benton, who had left the store with Klages just hours before the murder.

Benton also reportedly told a friend on the day of the killing that he had done something that would be on “the national news."

Past coverage:

Police: Suspect admitted Dishman killing to friend

Homicide suspect left jail just before murder

Homicide victim hoped for fresh start



Public safety news from the Inland Northwest and beyond.