Theft, assault suspect may have targeted more than 12 women

A man with a criminal history in three states is suspected of assaulting or stealing from more than a dozen women in Spokane and Kootenai counties, according to the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office.

Michael J. McNearney, 24, was arrested Thursday on charges of first-degree theft, unlawful imprisonment-domestic violence, fourth-degree domestic violence assault and indecent liberties. The charges involve three women, said Sheriff’s Office spokesman Deputy Mark Gregory. McNearney was out on bail on a charge of second-degree domestic violence assault by strangulation when he was arrested.

Deputies believe there are many more victims. Gregory said McNearney meets women at bars or nightclubs, on social media and on dating sites. He has claimed to be an active-duty Marine, but he has never served in the military, Gregory said.

McNearney’s bond was set Friday at $20,000. According to prosecutors, McNearney has a history of manipulating and threatening women into giving him money or buying him things. His criminal history reportedly includes offenses in Idaho, Kansas and Washington.

The Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone who may have been victimized by McNearney to call Crime Check at (509) 456-2233.