Onalaska man charged with stealing generator, using car jack as weapon

As of April 3, 2025, an Onalaska man has been formally charged with three felony counts following a bizarre incident that allegedly involved the theft of a generator and the use of a car jack as a weapon. The case, filed in Lewis County Superior Court, has drawn local attention due to the unusual nature of the alleged crime.

Alex M. Bodin, 27, was taken into custody on Tuesday, April 1, after deputies responded to a report of a residential burglary in the 200 block of Brown Road, just outside Onalaska. According to court documents, the victim told police that Bodin, an acquaintance, had arrived uninvited and began arguing over a personal dispute. The situation escalated when Bodin allegedly walked to the victim’s shed, removed a generator valued at approximately $800, and loaded it onto a truck.

When the victim and a family member attempted to intervene, Bodin is accused of grabbing a heavy-duty car jack from the back of his truck and swinging it repeatedly, striking two parked vehicles — a Ford F-150 and a Honda Civic — causing significant damage to hoods, windshields, and side panels. The estimated repair cost exceeds $5,000. No injuries were reported, but the victims stated they feared for their safety.

The Lewis County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Bodin was arrested without incident a short distance from the scene. He was booked into the Lewis County Jail and faces charges of first-degree burglary, second-degree malicious mischief, and third-degree assault — all felonies under Washington state law. Court records indicate Bodin has a prior misdemeanor conviction for theft in 2022, but no violent offenses on his record.

Exclusive context: rising property crime in Lewis County

According to data from the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, property crime reports have increased by 12% over the past year, with generator thefts becoming a recurring issue in rural areas, particularly during spring cleanup seasons. Local law enforcement attributes the rise to the high value of portable generators and the ease of resale online. “We’re seeing more cases where individuals target outbuildings like sheds and barns for tools and equipment,” said Sergeant Mark Henderson, a public information officer. “This incident is a particularly violent example of a trend that has been growing.”

Legal experts note that the use of a car jack as a weapon could elevate the severity of the assault charge, potentially leading to a sentence enhancement if Bodin is convicted. “A car jack is not a typical weapon, but under Washington law, any object used to cause injury or fear of injury can be considered a deadly weapon in the context of an assault,” said defense attorney Carla Reeves, who is not involved in the case. “If the prosecution proves that, Bodin could face an additional five years in prison.”

Court proceedings and next steps

Bodin made his first appearance in Lewis County Superior Court on Wednesday, April 2, where the judge set bail at $50,000 cash or bond. He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on April 14. Public defender James Liu has been appointed to represent him. Liu declined to comment on the allegations, citing the early stage of the proceedings.

The victim, who asked not to be named, told local media that he had known Bodin for several years and was shocked by the outburst. “I never thought he would do something like this. He just snapped,” the victim said. “I’m glad no one was hurt, but my family is still shaken.”

Community impact and safety tips

The incident has prompted neighbors in the Onalaska area to discuss better security measures for rural properties. The Lewis County Sheriff’s Office recommends installing motion-sensor lights, securing sheds with heavy-duty locks, and marking valuable equipment with serial numbers or GPS trackers. “Property crimes often escalate when victims confront suspects,” Sergeant Henderson added. “We always advise people to call 911 and avoid direct confrontation.”

As the case moves forward, Bodin remains in custody. If convicted on all three counts, he faces a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison and fines totaling $30,000. The generator has been recovered and returned to the victim.

This story is developing. Check back for updates on court dates and further legal developments.