Showing posts with label police. Show all posts
Showing posts with label police. Show all posts

New state agency will investigate police use of deadly force

Monday, July 17, 2023

A new Washington agency established to investigate incidents where police officers use deadly force is now accepting requests to review past cases. 

It is not investigating new ones yet. 

Led by a civilian director, the state's Office of Independent Investigations is meant to serve as an unbiased examiner of the deadly force incidents. 

It only plans to delve into past cases if new evidence emerges that wasn't part of an earlier investigation. 

The office was created by legislation that was part of a 2021 package of bills intended to improve police accountability. The co-chair of an advisory board to the office described reviewing past cases as “a big step and something a lot of us have wanted for a long time.” | 

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Five months into the new crisis response agency, patterns begin to emerge

By Diane Hettrick

The Regional Crisis Response Agency (RCR) grew out of the RADAR program which originated with Shoreline Police and City of Shoreline. The program sent crisis-trained social workers on police calls that involved people with social and behavioral issues.

The program expanded to other north end cities. It is now the Regional Crisis Response Agency (RCR -pronounded 'racer'), serving and supported by a coalition of five north end cities: Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Kenmore, Bothell, and Kirkland.

The RCR Principals Assembly

The new agency is overseen by the Principals Assembly with elected officials from all five cities: 
  • Shoreline Councilmember John Ramsdell
  • Lake Forest Park Councilmember Larry Goldman
  • Kenmore Councilmember Debra Srebnik
  • Bothell Councilmember Jenne Alderks
  • Kirkland Councilmember Neal Black
On June 28, this body met for the first time to review the foundation of the RCR Agency as well as services provided so far this year.  

The councilmembers also discussed how they would define and measure success as the Agency continues to grow and provide services for more people across North King County. Finally, they heard feedback from the RCR Community Advisory Group, made up of individuals who have lived experiences in the crisis system, about desired program outcomes.

The Executive committee is composed of the city managers / administrators from all five cities. The Executive Director is Brook Buettner, who has been with the program from the very beginning.


In the first five months of the year (January 1, 2023 – May 31, 2023),  RCR Crisis Responders provided services for a total of 438 individuals in our communities, during a total of 1,228 encounters.

Of those individuals served for whom race data was available (n=211), 73% were White, and 27% were Black, Indigenous or People of Color (BIPOC).

Of those for whom housing data was available (n=223), 37% were homeless or unhoused. Of all individuals served, 55% identified as female, 43% identified as male, and 2% identified as trans, non-binary or other gender expression.

The regional mobile crisis services provided by RCR begin with a person-centered approach focusing on compassionate and immediate crisis response, de-escalation, resource referral, and follow-up tailored to the specific needs of those experiencing behavioral health challenges.



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Fatal shooting in Bitter Lake Neighborhood Thursday evening

Friday, July 14, 2023

Seattle Police were dispatched to reports of a shooting Thursday evening, July 13, 2023 in the Bitter Lake neighborhood.

Officers arrived just after 9:30pm in the 12500 block of Aurora Ave N and located a man who appeared to have been shot multiple times.

Police attempted life saving measures prior to Seattle Fire’s arrival. SFD took over medical care, but the 29-year-old man succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

The events leading up to the shooting have not yet been determined.

SPD’s Crime Scene Investigations Unit responded to the scene to assist in the investigation. Homicide detectives will continue to investigate this case.

Meanwhile, if anyone has information, please call the SPD Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000.


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Police investigation in Ridgecrest

Tuesday, July 11, 2023

KCSO Major Crimes detectives processing the scene
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Ridgecrest neighbors were startled to see crime scene tape blocking the 15800 block of 11th Ave NE. Recology trucks were diverted around the block, leaving recycle bins on the street.

A neighbor stated a woman came to his door knocking loudly about a domestic violence issue next door.

The Major Crimes detectives arrived later in the day to collect evidence. The photos of the area were taken about 10:15am.

Shoreline Police stated that "This is an open and active case with one person in-custody. There is no public safety concerns;



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Too close to home: Edmonds man arrested with stash of 4,000 fentanyl pills

Photo courtesy Snohomish County Sheriff's Office
On Friday, July 7, 2023 the Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force arrested a man in Edmonds related to an ongoing investigation. 

The suspect, a man in his 40s, was arrested and detectives recovered 4,000 fentanyl pills, 170 grams of meth and 52 grams of fentanyl powder.


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Arrest on Aurora Friday

By Diane Hettrick

Around 2pm on Friday, July 7, 2023 residents were startled and alarmed to witness a large number, 9 to 12 depending on accounts, of Shoreline police cars racing north on Aurora,

Then an eyewitness saw a man in handcuffs sitting on the curb in the vicinity of the Dale Turner Y.

Shoreline police state that Shoreline officers were dispatched to a retailer for a robbery. Their investigation resulted in the arrest of one man for felony harassment. No persons were injured. He was booked in the King County Jail.

It is the practice of all emergency services - police, fire, medic - to send all available resources if the call sounds like an emergency. Other jurisdictions will also respond if they are nearby and available.

Once on scene they will assess the situation, determine who has the lead and what resources are needed and everyone else will leave.


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LFP Police Department hires new police officer

Saturday, July 8, 2023

Sam Gouin
The Lake Forest Park Police Department is pleased to announce the hiring of its newest Police Officer!

Recruit Samantha (Sam) Gouin started on May 1, 2023 with Lake Forest Park PD. 

She is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and had a few key roles throughout her time in the military. 

Sam also held positions at Kemper Development Company, Praetorian Detective Agency, and the Mariners Team Store. 

In addition to those positions, Sam completed an associate degree at North Seattle College and received certification at the National Personal Training Institute. 

Sam states she is always looking for “ways to be engaged, learn, and continue my professional and personal development.” 

Sam said, “So, with that I’ll say I am so honored and ecstatic to be a part of the Lake Forest Park Police Department and its community.” 

She is currently scheduled to attend the police academy in April 2024.


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Seattle Police Human Trafficking Operation yields seven arrests on Aurora at 125th

Tuesday, July 4, 2023

An emphasis aimed at the buyers of victims of human trafficking netted seven arrests along the Aurora Avenue corridor last Wednesday evening.

Members of the SPD Human Trafficking Unit, with the assistance of the Major Crimes Task Force, General Investigations Unit, Narcotics, Community Response Group, and patrol officers from the North and East Precincts, conducted an undercover operation in the 12500 block of Aurora Ave N.

During the hours long emphasis, a total of seven men approached undercover officers posing as prostitutes and agreed to exchange money for sex acts. Arrest teams contacted each suspect and took them into custody without incident.

Each suspect was transported to the North Precinct where they were identified, processed, and released for patronizing a prostitute. Officers also impounded three vehicles as part of the operation.

The Seattle Police Department remains committed to allocating resources to respond to and investigate complaints of human trafficking, whether sex or forced labor. If you are a victim of human trafficking, resources are available to help you 24-hours a day.

For more information, visit the SPD Human Trafficking Unit webpage.


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LFP Police report for June 22, 2023

Thursday, June 29, 2023

2020 LFP Police Department

City of Lake Forest Park
June 22, 2023

Police officers approached an individual who had established a tent in close proximity to the Starbucks Drive-Thru. The person in question was directed to seek assistance from the Mobile Crisis team, and Starbucks requested that the individual be removed from their property due to trespassing.

Police officers were sent to respond to a disturbance caused by a male individual at Rite Aid. The subject was observed aggressively confronting shoppers and shouting at them. Mall security requested the assistance of the police in issuing a trespass letter. Once the trespass letter was issued, the subject directed his anger towards the officers while leaving the premises, shouting at them.

A customer of ARCO contacted the police department to report an employee who was allegedly yelling at an individual and exhibiting racist behavior. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the employee involved, who explained that he was indeed raising his voice at a transient individual who repeatedly urinates in the business closet instead of using the restroom. The person who made the report expressed dissatisfaction with the employee's behavior, but it appeared to stem from personal bias rather than the employee's actions. The officers advised the employee to notify the police if the subject returns, and they expressed willingness to issue a trespass order if desired.

Police officers were dispatched to a report of a male individual causing a disturbance and yelling outside of a Subway restaurant. Upon investigation, it was determined that this was the same person who had been repeatedly harassing firefighters at nearby fire stations. It was also noted that the individual is known to have mental health issues. However, by the time the police arrived at the scene, the subject had already left the area.

Police officers were sent to respond to a situation involving an individual on the property of the reporting party. The subject was observed lying on a blanket and using a small glass pipe to smoke an unidentified substance. The individual then covered themselves with a blue tarp and seemed to be preparing to sleep. Upon locating the subject, it became evident that they were visibly under the influence of narcotics. The officers instructed the subject to leave the property and return to Seattle, warning them that they would be arrested if they came back to the property.

Police officers were dispatched to respond to an incident involving a male individual who was using narcotics inside his vehicle in front of Mod Pizza. However, the subject had already departed in his vehicle prior to the arrival of the police.

Mall security approached three individuals who had filled three shopping carts with items while inside Ross. Upon being confronted by security and store employees, the subjects chose to leave the area either to purchase the items or to exit the premises.

An officer noticed an individual who was passed out in a bus stop shelter located at 153rd and SR522. The presence of evident drug paraphernalia was observed around the subject. At the individual's request, they were provided with a courtesy ride to Northgate Park and Ride.

Officers were dispatched to a “hound dog” excessively barking. Officers located said hound dog who refused to comply with orders to stop and fled into Kenmore, still barking. Officers later discovered the same “hound dog” running on the shoulder of SR522. Officers successfully took the “hound dog” into custody and returned him to his owner. “Hound dog” was warned for excessive barking during quiet hours (LFPMC).

A caller notified the police about a subject who was screaming and causing destruction in the bus shelter situated at 165th and SR522. However, despite their efforts, the officers were unable to locate the individual in question.


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After multi-agency investigation, detectives arrest three suspects believed to be part of an organized crime group responsible for over 200 burglaries

Saturday, June 24, 2023

Photo by Joe Shields on unsplash.com
SNOHOMISH COUNTY, Wash. – At approximately 3:15pm Friday, June 23, 2023, detectives from the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office, Lynnwood Police Department, King County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security arrested three robbery and burglary suspects in the 1200 block of NE 135th St in Seattle. 

The suspects, a 24-year-old man, a 29-year-old man and a 30-year-old man were all taken into custody as they were leaving their residence in Seattle. The three suspects are believed to be part of an organized crime group responsible for over 200 burglaries since 2021, resulting in losses exceeding $4 million in cash and jewelry.
 
In November 2021, Sheriff’s Office Robbery and Burglary Unit (RBU) detectives discovered a string of approximately 20 very similar burglaries occurring at homes of Asian American families in Snohomish County. Detectives began investigating and identified a primary suspect. The suspect then left the area in early 2022 and the targeted burglaries stopped. He returned to the area later in 2022 and burglaries drastically increased again.
 
In 2022, detectives from multiple agencies in Whatcom, Snohomish and King counties began collaborating and sharing information throughout their investigations. It was discovered this same group was targeting homes from Bellingham all the way south of Seattle.
 
Through an extensive investigation, including search warrants, video evidence, physical evidence, undercover operations and cellular data analysis, detectives from the Sheriff’s Office RBU unit, Lynnwood PD, Bellevue PD, King County Sheriff’s Office, Bellingham PD and Homeland Security Investigations developed probable cause for multiple counts of first-degree Residential Burglary and second-degree Robbery.
 
Three suspects were arrested Thursday and booked into the King County Jail. They are expected to be transferred to the Snohomish County Jail this weekend.
 
The suspects are believed to be part of an organized crime group from South America operating throughout the United States.
 
This remains an active investigation and additional charges will be referred on the suspects. Detectives also anticipate making additional arrests connected to these crimes.


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Bike patrols hit the streets in Shoreline

Photo courtesy Shoreline Police

Shoreline begins bike patrols for the summer.

Bike patrols allow officers to navigate through pedestrian and bike-heavy areas with ease. 

We'll be keeping an eye out for any suspicious activity and addressing any safety concerns. 

We also want to connect with our community members, so if you see us cruising around, don't be shy! 

Say hello and ask us any questions. 


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Shoreline police have technology to quickly identify drugs

Thursday, June 22, 2023

TruNarc identifies illegal drugs

Identifying illegal drugs comes with numerous risks, including exposure to harmful substances. 

To protect our officers from the dangers of drug exposure such as fentanyl, the Shoreline Police has implemented TruNarc; a handheld device that uses laser technology to identify substances quickly and accurately.

With the push of a button, TruNarc determines the chemical composition of drugs, through transparent packaging such as bags or glass bottles, in a matter of seconds. 

This helps prevent accidents, reduce risks to individuals, and the community.
 
With innovative technologies and commitment to safety, we can work towards creating a safer and more secure community for everyone.


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Seattle Police seek information in homicide on north Aurora Friday

Wednesday, June 21, 2023

Homicide at 137th and Aurora
Photo courtesy Seattle Police

Police are investigating a shooting that killed one person along the Aurora Avenue corridor early Friday, June 16, 2023.

Shortly after 4:00am, North Precinct officers responded to a 911 call about a person shot in front of a business in the 13700 block of Aurora Avenue in Seattle.

When officers arrived, they found a deceased male with a gunshot wound. Witness information indicated the suspect left the scene in a vehicle prior to police arriving.

Members of the Crime Scene Investigations Unit responded to the scene alongside Homicide detectives who will lead the investigation.

Anyone with information about this incident please call the Seattle Police Department (SPD) Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000.



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Safety Day for Kids June 24, 2023 in Lake Forest Park

Thursday, June 15, 2023

On Saturday, June 24, 2023 between 10:00am and 3:00pm, the Lake Forest Park Police Department is hosting its 3rd annual "Safety Day for Kids." 


Join us for a fun-filled day of outdoor safety education for children featuring biking, hiking, and water activities.

Bicycle obstacle course. Photo courtesy LFP PD

Kids will have the opportunity to participate in a bicycle obstacle course to learn about traffic safety and considerate cycling. 

Our team of King County Search and Rescue representatives and Lake Forest Park Police Officers will discuss outdoor and water safety while giving away bicycle helmets and life jackets to children and adults with disabilities on a first-come, first-served basis.

Shoreline Fire will offer tours of the fire truck

The Shoreline Fire Department and a Police K9 unit will also be in attendance. 

Children will receive free "safety bags" and we'll have even more to offer this year as we move to the lower level parking lot for greater visibility and more space. 

Thanks to our generous sponsors at Nekter Juice Bar and Local 104's coffee truck, refreshments will be available, too. 

Don't miss out on this fantastic event! There may even be a dunk tank!


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Shoreline Police: Newly promoted Sergeant Cedric Brookens

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

Newly promoted Sgt. Brookens

Prior to joining the Shoreline Police/King County Sheriff’s Office, Sgt. Brookens demonstrated his dedication to public service through his work as a KC Metro bus driver for 9 years. 

In 2017 he became a police officer making his first steps as a recruit here in Shoreline. He quickly established a reputation as a hardworking, dedicated, and conscientious officer. 

He continued to excel in his role and served in other contract cities, such as the city of Covington and KC Metro Transit police.

Sgt. Brookens is known for his ability to lead, connect and build strong relationships with the community. 

We are confident that with his skills, experience, and dedication to public service, he will make a positive impact on our community.


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Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics through Shoreline on Friday

Saturday, June 10, 2023

L-R Officer Hunt, Shoreline Capt Tim Meyer, Shoreline Chief Kelly Park, Shoreline Officer Paula Kieland, Kenmore Chief Brandon Moen

Shoreline and Kenmore Police Departments participated in the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics on Friday, June 9, 2023.

Officers ran with the torch through Shoreline, starting at N 205th, and then handed off to the Seattle Police Department at 145th.

We are proud to come together to support such an important cause!

Photo courtesy Shoreline Police

This is an annual tradition for our local police departments.

Special Olympics Washington is proud of the dedicated law enforcement personnel from all over the state who are committed to raising thousands of dollars for our athletes and increasing public awareness to our Program.



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DOJ: Marysville man who ran fentanyl pill mill from his garage sentenced to 15 years in prison

Friday, June 9, 2023

A Marysville, Washington, man was sentenced June 7, 2023 in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 15 years in prison for three federal felonies connected to the fentanyl pill manufacturing lab in his rental home, announced U.S. Attorney Nick Brown. 

Jose Eduardo Garnica, 34, pleaded guilty in March 2023 to conspiracy to manufacture and deliver controlled substances, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. 

At the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Tana Lin said, “This is one of the largest fentanyl seizures in the district. Mr. Garnica had so much fentanyl a hazmat team had to be called in.”

“This case weaves together all the strands that make fentanyl trafficking such a dangerous business,” said U.S. Attorney Nick Brown. 

Mr. Garnica was manufacturing fentanyl pills with deadly powders that could make each pill lethal. His activities contaminated the home he rented, and he had 27 guns – many of them high powered assault weapons – adding to the danger. This is a significant prison sentence, but appropriate due to the risk he posed to our community.”

According to records filed in the case, Garnica came to the attention of law enforcement on June 17, 2022, when U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Los Angeles inspected a package shipped from China to Garnica’s Marysville address. 

The package was labeled “furniture parts,” but in fact it contained dies for use in a pill press that would make pills that appear to have the markings of oxycodone pills. 

Further investigation of Garnica and Wilson revealed numerous unusual cash transactions and the purchase of 11 firearms in a three-month span of 2020. 
In fact, when law enforcement searched the home, agents seized 27 guns and 25 kilos of fentanyl. Law enforcement also seized 50,000 rounds of ammunition.

On July 21, 2022, agents with Homeland Security Investigations and the FBI executed search warrants at the Marysville residence and seized the pill press and other materials for making fake oxycodone pills in the garage. 

Officers called a hazmat team to secure the lab due to the potentially deadly nature of fentanyl powder. Investigators determined that fentanyl residue had spread from the manufacturing location in the garage, throughout the house. The spread may have been caused by the HVAC system. Garnica has agreed to pay more than $71,000 to the owner of the home to remediate the residence.

In addition to the pill press and fentanyl powder, law enforcement found kilo sized bricks of fentanyl pills that appeared to have been smuggled into the U.S. from Mexico. 

Also of great concern, some of the pills Garnica was manufacturing also contained Xylazine – a sedative used in veterinary medicine that has been linked to more deaths. In some instances, those injected with Xylazine had had tissue damage requiring amputation.

In asking for an 18-year prison sentence, Assistant United States Attorney Vince Lombardi cited the unique danger of fentanyl and the heavy toll of fatal overdoses in King County. 

“…Fentanyl overdose deaths have continued to soar in the Seattle area. Overdose deaths attributable in whole or in part to fentanyl have risen from just 22 in 2016 to 709 in 2022. 
"As of May 26, more than 500 overdose deaths were attributable to fentanyl for 2023 to date – a pace that puts King County at more than 1,000 overdose deaths by year end.”

The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the FBI with assistance from the Washington State Patrol, National Guard Civil Service Team, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Custom and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations, the Snohomish County Drug Task Force, and the Skagit County Drug Task Force.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Vince Lombardi.


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Shoreline Police to the rescue - of Stella Luna the pig

Thursday, June 8, 2023


Runaway pig rescued from traffic by Shoreline Police
Photo courtesy Shoreline Police

Shoreline Police Officers have added a new feather to their cap – pig rescuers!

Patrol responded to a 911 call regarding a pig who had wandered off onto a busy street.

Without any hesitation, the officers rushed to the scene and managed to safely escort “Stella Luna,” the 300 lb. pig, to the side of the road.

Stella Luna's owner had been looking for her
Photo courtesy Shoreline Police

The owner had been frantically searching for her and was relieved and grateful to be reunited with her pet.

Stella Luna was “oinking” with joy and gratitude to be reunited with its owner as well!

We commend our officers for going above and beyond their call of duty, both human and animal alike!


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Shooting in Lake City Saturday morning

Sunday, June 4, 2023

Graphic courtesy @SeattleInfo

A 35 year old man was shot in Lake City on Saturday morning June 3, 2023 around 11am. The shooting took place near NE 125th just east of Lake City Way NE.

Witnesses heard 3-5 gun shots. The male victim went around the corner north on Lake City Way and collapsed, screaming for help and bleeding profusely from wounds to the head.

Nearby people rushed to help, with some residents bringing first aid kits.

The victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to Harborview and rushed into surgery.

Police and K9 unit responded but the suspect is outstanding.

Officers gathered evidence at the scene but did not determine what events led to the shooting. Gun Violence Reduction Unit detectives will lead the ongoing investigation. 

If you have information about this incident call the SPD Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000. 

6-4-2023 Story updated


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Shoreline Police warn of dangers of being a Bus Lane Bandit

Saturday, June 3, 2023

Photos courtesy Shoreline Police
The week’s three-vehicle collision serves as a reminder to all that Shoreline BAT (Bus and Transit) lanes are, well, for buses. 

Not a bus? Turn right at the next light (or intersection) or risk a ticket.
Photo courtesy Shoreline Police
The driver of a 4Runner (not a bus) was driving southbound approaching the 16300 block of Aurora Ave. They continued straight in the BAT lane colliding with two cars. Injuries were minor but not the crash.

For safety’s sake … stay in your lane!



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