Criminal Justice

April 2026

April 13, 2026

Four Eastern Washington sheriffs sue over new law letting the state unseat elected sheriffs — Spokane, Pend Oreille, Stevens, and Ferry county sheriffs argue Senate Bill 5974, signed by Ferguson on April 1, unconstitutionally transfers voter authority to a governor-appointed commission empowered to decertify sitting sheriffs.

July 2025

July 21, 2025

City Council approves civil fines for graffiti  — New ordinance allows $1,500 penalties per violation and targets repeat taggers through civil lawsuits.

June 2025

June 2, 2025

Shawn Kemp pleads guilty in 2023 shooting incident — The former SuperSonics star admitted to second-degree assault for firing at a vehicle in Tacoma; prosecutors recommend nine months in jail under plea deal.

May 2025

May 27, 2025

Three arrested in Pioneer Square shooting that killed three, injured one — Seattle police say two men face murder and assault charges in the May 17 incident; a third suspect was arrested on an unrelated warrant as the investigation continues.

May 27, 2025

Police arrest 23 during protest at Cal Anderson Park — Seattle officers say arrests were made for assault and obstruction after clashes between opposing groups on Saturday; one officer was treated for injuries and released.

May 5, 2025

City attorney launches alternative to drug prosecution for misdemeanor cases  — Defendants can avoid jail by completing treatment steps, passing drug tests, and staying arrest-free for 60 days to qualify for case dismissal.