When they arrived at the residence, Cpl. Hunt spoke to Julie McCormick who advised him that Brian Hess was not at the residence, nor was there anyone else there, but advised the officer that Hess might be at the home of Jason Smith, next door. When the officer informed McCormick that they were only looking for Hess, McCormick evaded giving him verbal consent to look for the suspect, stating that her parents owned the residence, and that she wished to acquire additional clothing, being unclothed and being nervous. Cpl. Hunt stated at the time he was there McCormick was properly clothed and was living at the residence.
Julie McCormick did give Cpl. Hunt and Officer Holcomb verbal permission to search the residence as she traveled behind a closed front door to retrieve clothing and a cell phone. Cpl Hunt agreed several times to watch McCormick retrieve the items within view of an open door for the officers safety. McCormick’s behavior became increasingly nervous during the conversation at which time Cpl. Hunt could see from his position on the front porch of the residence an open window, giving a suspect inside dangerous information as to what his purpose for being there was. At that time, Cpl. Hunt became concerned for the safety of himself and Officer Holcomb if the suspect escaped due to multiple exits to the residence. The officers executed a protective sweep and located Brian Hess in a back bedroom of the residence.
The male suspect advised Cpl. Hunt that he was Wayne Hess, his twin brother, but was quickly identified by Cpl. Hunt as Brian Weston Hess.
Julie Ann McCormick, age 42, was arrested for Misdemeanor Providing False Information to DPS and Obstructing an Officer. She was taken to WV Central Regional Jail where she is being held on $2,500 bond.
