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The Blotter
The Times' criminal justice team looks behind the scenes and behind the headlines.
April 30, 2009 2:49 PM
Suspects in Fremont armed robbery include 16-year-old girl
Posted by John de Leon
Two men and a 16-year-old girl have been arrested in connection with a takeover robbery on April 15 at a restaurant in the 400 block of North 35th Street.
The night manager was closing the restaurant for the night at around 2 a.m. when two men and girl entered the business wearing bandanas over their faces. One was armed with a handgun. The suspects forced the manager into the back office area, where they tied him up and robbed the store. The suspects then fled and the manager was able to call 911.
On Wednesday, detectives were able to track down one of the suspects and arrest him in the University District. The 29-year-old man was interviewed by detectives, and they developed information about the suspect's accomplices. The other two suspects, a 22 -year-old man and a 16-year-old girl, were located and arrested. The two men were booked into the King County Jail for investigation of robbery. The girl was interviewed and released to the custody of her mother.
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April 30, 2009 12:51 PM
PHOTOS: 'Dirty' robber hits West Seattle KeyBank
Posted by John de Leon
The FBI says this man robbed the KeyBank branch at 4701 California Ave. S.W. in West Seattle at 11:12 this morning.
The robber approached a teller and presented a demand note. He did not display a weapon or imply that he had one. He was given money and he left the bank through the west doors and was last seen running northbound up the alley past a Wells Fargo Bank, according to the FBI.
The man was described as white, 35 to 45 years old, 5-feet-8 to 6 feet tall, thin build, with a full beard and mustache and a "dirty appearance," the FBI said. He was wearing a purple knit cap and a purple hooded sweatshirt.
Anyone with information is asked to call the FBI at 206-622-0460.
Comments | Category: Bank robbery |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 30, 2009 11:36 AM
PHOTOS: 'Man Hands Bandit' robs Shoreline bank
Posted by John de Leon
A bank robber dubbed the "Man Hands Bandit" because of his penchant for wearing women's clothes has struck again, this time this morning at the City Bank
Citibank branch at 20333 Ballinger Way N.E. in Shoreline. The robbery occurred at 9:50 a.m., according to the FBI.
The nickname comes from an episode of "Seinfeld," a portion of which can be viewed by clicking here.
As usual, he used a note and left on foot. Like in previous robberies, the FBI says he was wearing a wig, although this one was slightly different with curly hair. The robbery is believed to be his fourth. The others were in Poulsbo, Edmonds, North Seattle. In the other robberies, the man dressed like a woman. This time, the FBI says he wore more masculine clothes.
Anyone with information should call the FBI at 206-622-0460
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April 30, 2009 11:18 AM
Body found in Green River near Tukwila
Posted by John de Leon
Police say a body has been found in the Green River in Tukwila. We have posted a story, which can be found by clicking here.
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April 30, 2009 9:55 AM
Refusing to pose for police mug shot not illegal in Oregon
Posted by John de Leon
Here's an interesting ruling from the Oregon State Court, which has determined that suspects who refuse to pose for a police mug shot are not obstructing the law.
Accoding to The Associated Press, the court reversed the Oregon Court of Appeals and a trial judge who had ruled that Artissa Gaines had violated a law that prohibits "physical interference or obstruction" of "governmental or judicial administration."
In January 2004, Gaines was being booked on a felony charge. A corrections officer discovered that her file lacked a frontal photograph of her face, but she refused three times to pose for the mug shot. The officer decided she would resist future efforts to obtain a photograph and charged her with obstruction.
But the Supreme Court ruled today that simple refusal and passive resistance was not enough to be charged or convicted.
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April 30, 2009 6:05 AM
Lawbreaker steals 75 pounds of jawbreakers
Posted by John de Leon
Police in Port Townsend are looking for a thief with a huge bellyache after someone stole 250 giant jawbreakers -- 75 pounds of 'em -- early Tuesday morning in a break-in at Discovery Bay Railroad Park. Co-owner Blane Smith is offering a $500 reward for information leading to the arrest of the thief who broke into his candy caboose at the park, according to the Port Townsend Leader.
"Two hundred and fifty of those jawbreakers are a lot," Smith tells the Leader, "There's no way someone can eat them all."
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April 29, 2009 3:17 PM
PHOTO: Edmonds police seek info on slaying victim
Posted by John de Leon
Edmonds police have released photos of a man found slain on Monday as well as his dogs in hopes that they could jog someone's memory.
The Snohomish County Medical Examiner's Office has identified the man as Drew E. Johnson, 51. Johnson died from a gunshot wound to the head and the death is being investigated as a homicide.
Investigators would like to hear from anyone who knew him, anyone that may have information about this crime or anyone who may have seen or met with Johnson on Monday, the day of the slaying. Johnson did not work but lived in the Firdale Village Apartment Complex in Edmonds and walked his dogs, Apollo and Bruno, daily through the complex (usually separately).
Johnson also made daily trips to Seattle and would occasionally walk his dog Apollo around Greenlake.
Anyone with information on Johnson, or who may have seen him on the day of his slaying is asked to call the Edmonds Police Department tip line at 425-771-0212, or send an email to firstname.lastname@example.com.
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April 29, 2009 1:53 PM
Governor approves ban of fire hazard novelty lighters
Posted by Nick Provenza
Lighters that look like toys and have been implicated in numerous house fires over the years will soon be banned from being sold in the state under a measure signed by Gov. Chris Gregoire.
Gregoire signed the measure into law today. It takes effect in July.
Under the new law, any lighter that has flashing lights, makes musical sounds, or could be mistaken as a toy is banned. Disposable lighters with decals and artwork are exempt.
Retail stores that continue to sell the lighters will first be issued a warning, but subsequent violations will garner a $250 fine.
Lawmakers took up the issue after several fires were started by children who were playing with the toy-like incendiary devices.
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April 29, 2009 11:50 AM
Wanted for robbery: Motorcycle rider in helmet
Posted by John de Leon
Might be tough to track down this robbery suspect in Bellingham. He's described as a white man in his 20s, dressed in blue jeans, black and blue flannel shirt -- and a motorcycle helmet. How many white guys in jeans and flannel ride a motorcycle?
Bellingham police say the man robbed the Haggen's store in the 2900 block of Woburn Street at around 2 this morning. The cashier told police that a weapon was not displayed but it was implied. The suspect, who apparently never removed his helmet, fled with an undisclosed amount of cash.
Police say the suspect also is about 5-feet-11 and weighs about 165 pounds. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Green at 360-778-8820.
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April 29, 2009 11:11 AM
Mercer Island to test earthquake preparedness on Thursday
Posted by John de Leon
The City of Mercer island will conduct an earthquake drill to test the city's emergency response from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday. They even have a name for it: "Island Quake '09."
According to the city, the drill will test its response to a 6.7-magnitude earthquake along the Seattle Fault. Fortunately, all of the expected problems -- power outages, utility disruptions, health-care issues, and impacts to schools, businesses and transportation -- will be simulated. Because a major earthquake could isolate Mercer Island from the rest of the region, city officials say the emergency response will involve not only city government, but also the Mercer Island School District, volunteers, the faith community, businesses and private citizens.
Mercer Island residents who want to learn more about emergency preparedness, can click here.
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April 29, 2009 7:11 AM
Fire damages Green Lake home
Posted by Nick Provenza
Seattle fire investigators are looking for the cause of a fire that damaged a Green Lake area home Tuesday night.
Fire Department spokeswoman Dana Vander Houwen said the fire, reported about 10:40 p.m., spread through several second-floor rooms in a house in the 7700 block of Corliss Avenue North.
Firefighters controlled the blaze in about 15 minutes; no injuries were reported.
Investigators were expected to give an estimate of the damage today.
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April 29, 2009 6:18 AM
Two boys arrested in Rainier Beach burglary
Posted by Nick Provenza
Two boys got a trip to the King County Youth Services Center Tuesday after police busted them for investigation of burglary, according to Seattle Police.
One of the boys slipped into a home through a window about 10:30 Tuesday morning and then let the second boy in through a side door.
What the boys didn't realize is that a neighbor saw it all.
The neighbor called police and within minutes, officers arrived. The intruders had already left the home, but officers found them a few blocks away and arrested them.
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April 29, 2009 6:00 AM
News Tribune: Two accidents at Puyallup fairgrounds since 2003
Posted by John de Leon
The accident earlier this month at the Puyallup Spring Fair is one of two resulting in injuries at the fairgrounds since 2003, The News Tribune of Tacoma is reporting.
On April 17, two adults and four children were sent to the hospital after the Lolly Wing ride collapsed because of wet ground. They were treated for minor injuries.
The other time a person got hurt on a ride at the Puyallup Fairgrounds during that period was in September 2006, when an overhead support beam in a haunted house ride fell and hit a woman in the chest, according to state records obtained by The News Tribune. The woman spent three days in the hospital.
Fair spokeswoman Karen LaFlamme told the newspaper that the low number of accidents at the fair in recent years indicates its rides are generally safe.
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April 28, 2009 4:07 PM
Auburn housefire was accident
Posted by John de Leon
Investigators from the South King County Fire Investigation Task Force have determined the cause of a residential fire Monday evening in Auburn to be accidental.
The fire started in the garage wall near where the electrical meter base enters the structure. The residence is located at 31450 117th Place S.E., near Green River Community College in the Lea Hill area of Auburn.
Damage to the home was estimated to be $350,000. One vehicle parked in the driveway was also damaged.
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April 28, 2009 3:24 PM
Man pleads guilty in immigration scam
Posted by John de Leon
A 41-year-old Kent man pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit immigration fraud for advising immigrants to falsely claim to be gay and subject to persecution or even death if they returned home so they could win asylum in the U.S.
Steven Mahoney faces up to five years in prison when he is sentenced Aug. 21 in U.S. District Court in Seattle.
According to a news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office, Mahoney counseled, advised, and prepared immigration applications for immigrants seeking legal status in the U.S. from October 1998 through June 2007. Mahoney admitted that he filed up to 99 false immigration documents seeking legal status based on asylum claims. Mahoney was paid between $1,000 and $4,000 for each of the falsified applications.
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April 28, 2009 1:01 PM
FBI: Have you seen this bank robber?
Posted by John de Leon
The FBI has released these photos of a man who robbed the Wells Fargo branch at a Seattle
QFC Safeway store, 1410 E. John St. , at about 4:39 p.m. Saturday. The man presented a demand note in which he implied that he had a weapon. The teller complied and the man then fled.
The man is described as Asian, 35 to 45 years old, 5-feet-3 and 125 pounds. He had brown hair and wore eyeglasses.
Anyone with information on the man is asked to call the FBI at 206-622-0460.
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April 28, 2009 11:41 AM
Seattle police: Would-be Craigslist killer arrested
Posted by John de Leon
Does Seattle have its own would-be Craigslist killer?
A 24-year-old Kent man has been arrested for investigation of attempted murder after he allegedly placed an ad on Craigslist indicating he wanted to have sex with a woman and then kill her. The ad, titled "A strange desire," was posted in the "Casual Encounters" section of the site under the Seattle-Tacoma area listing.
Seattle police conducted an undercover investigation before arresting the man.
To read our full story, click here.
Comments | Category: Attempted murder , Weird, wacky or interesting |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 28, 2009 10:54 AM
Possible homicide in Edmonds
Posted by John de Leon
The Edmonds Police Department is investigating the death of a 51-year-old man whose body was discovered in an apartment in the 9400 block of 244th Street Southwest. Police are investigating the death as a homicide.
Officers responded to the address at 3:30 p.m. on Monday after a relative of the resident of the apartment called 911 reporting that an unresponsive man was inside. Officers arrived and confirmed the man was dead.
The identity of the dead man is being withheld pending family notifications.
An autopsy is scheduled for later today to determine the exact cause of death.
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April 28, 2009 10:40 AM
Police arrest suspect in slaying at Bellevue office park
Posted by John de Leon
Bellevue police arrested a 35-year-old man last night in connection with the slaying last week of another man at a Bellevue office park. We'll post a full story shortly.
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April 28, 2009 10:31 AM
Cops will maintain heavy presence on Hwy. 101 during bridge closure
Posted by John de Leon
If you plan to take Highway 101 during the six weeks the Hood Canal Bridge will be closed, you'd better plan on obeying all traffic laws. Several law enforcement agencies plan to maintain a heavy presence on the highway starting with Friday's bridge closure, the Peninsula Daily News is reporting.
"The idea is that if we have a very high visibility, people won't try to get away with anything," Linda Pfafman, of the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, tells the Daily News. "All the speed and traffic safety laws are going to be strictly enforced, and we will be there to immediately take care of it."
The Sheriff's Office, State Patrol and Port Townsend police are all planning to increase their presence along the stretches of Highway 101 near Brinnon and Quilcene, Center Road between highways 101 and 104 and all of Highway 104 during the bridge closure.
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April 28, 2009 8:18 AM
Wounded man stumbles out of woods on I-90 east of North Bend
Posted by Nick Provenza
A man who had been shot stumbled out of the woods southeast of North Bend along Interstate-90 early this morning and flagged down a motorist, according to a King County sheriff's spokesman.
Shortly after 2 a.m., the man -- who appears to be in his 40s -- flagged down the motorist near milepost 37, said Sgt. John Urquhart. The motorist called 911 and medics took the injured man to Overlake Hospital in Bellevue.
Because of a language barrier, detectives haven't yet been able to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting, Urquhart said. Urquhart couldn't say where on his body the man had been shot, nor how seriously he was injured.
More to come when more information is available.
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April 28, 2009 7:17 AM
Kent house heavily damaged by fire, no one injured
Posted by Nick Provenza
A fire that started on a stove heavily damaged a home in Kent shortly before 8 p.m. Monday. There were no injuries.
Residents of the home in the 10200 block of Southeast 228th Street called the fire department to report that a fire had started on the stove and was burning up the wall.
Th residents got out of the house safely. When firefighters arrived, thick, dark smoke and flames shooting ten feet in the air were coming from the back of the house.
The fire was put the fire out in 20 minutes.
Fire Safety Tip from the Kent Fire Department: If a fire starts in a pot or pan on the stove, put a lid on it. The lid will smother the fire and prevent it from spreading.
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April 28, 2009 5:58 AM
Vehicle honoring slain officers stopping in Lynnwood this morning
Posted by John de Leon
The "Drive to Remember For Fallen Officers," designed to raise awareness of law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty, will be making a stop in Lynnwood this morning at about 9 a.m. The stop will be at the southwest side of the Alderwood mall and will stay only for an hour.
The drive, featuring a specially decorated Hummer, is 5,100 miles from Vancouver, B.C. to Washington, D.C., where the National Police Memorial Ceremony will be held on May 15.
The names of all the officers who died in the line of duty in 2008 are prominently displayed on the vehicle. This includes the names of three officers from Washington state: Anne Marie Jackson, Skagit County Sheriff's Office; Kristine Fairbanks, U.S. Forest Service; and Nelson Ng, Ellensburg Police Department.
The Flag Plaza is located near the south entrance to the Sea-Tac Airport garage at International Boulevard and 182nd Street.
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April 27, 2009 3:35 PM
Car crashes into house in South Seattle
Posted by Nick Provenza
The driver of a stolen car crashed it into a house in South Seattle shortly about 10 a.m. today, but by the time the police arrived, the driver was long gone, according to Seattle Police.
Officers spotted a suspicious car in the 2900 block of South Holly Street and when they went up to it, the driver sped away. The officers ran back to their patrol car and began searching for the car and its driver.
Someone in the neighborhood told police that the car was seen heading west near Beacon Avenue South and South Eddy Street. Officers headed in that direction and found the car had crashed into a house in New Holly.
The car was sans driver and officers were unable to find him.
The house suffered significant structural damage, according to police.
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April 27, 2009 11:06 AM
3 Ballard robberies; shotgun toting victim runs off suspects in one attempted heist
Posted by Nick Provenza
-- From Seattle Times staff reporter Sara Jean Green
A woman's cell phone was snatched, a man was struck in the head and robbed of his cash, and another man was threatened by a group of robbers, but armed with a shotgun he got from home, was able to fend them off -- all in the span of an hour Friday night in Ballard.
Seattle robbery detectives are looking for four suspects in their late teens or early 20s, said Seattle police Sgt. Sean Whitcomb. Police believe all three strong-arm robberies are connected. Suspect descriptions were not available.
At 11:12 p.m., a woman walking in the 5600 block of Phinney Avenue North was accosted by two, young adult males, who demanded her cell phone, Whitcomb said. She gave it to them and they ran off.
Twenty minutes later, a man walking in the 3200 block of Northwest Market Street was confronted by two, young adult males. The assailants struck the man in the head and knocked him to the ground, forcing him to surrender his cash, Whitcomb said. The suspects ran away and the man declined medical attention.
Then, at 11:51 p.m., a man was walking home in the 2400 block of Northwest 58th Street when he was confronted by four, young adult men, Whitcomb said. The robbers implied they had a weapon but the victim didn't see one. He ran home, armed himself with a shotgun and chased the suspects away.
Soon after, at 12:14 a.m. Saturday, residents living in the 1700 block of Northwest 61st Street called 911 to report that some men were looking into vehicles and acting suspiciously, he said. Officers stopped, questioned and identified one man who was found in the 2400 block of Northwest 59th Street, Whitcomb said. Though detectives believe he may be associated with the earlier robberies, there wasn't enough evidence to arrest him.
"We think they're all connected," Whitcomb said. The two men from the earliest robbery are believed to be involved in all three robberies while the other two may have acted as lookouts, he said.
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April 26, 2009 6:43 PM
Girl, 2, found wandering in South Seattle
Posted by Nick Provenza
A 2-year-old girl who slipped out of her grandmother's house late Saturday night was found wandering by herself near 23rd Avenue South and South Graham Street in Seattle about 10:30 p.m., according to Seattle police.
A man found the child, called police and waited with her until officers arrived. The toddler was taken to the police department's South Precinct and Child Protective Services was called.
Meanwhile, officers searched the area where the girl was found, but turned up no one who might be looking for her.
Police let 911 dispatchers know that they might get a call from someone looking for the girl. Shortly after midnight, a woman who said she was the grandmother of a missing 2-year-old called 911. The grandmother was told the child was at the South Precinct where she picked up her granddaughter a short time later.
The grandmother, who said her granddaughter was staying at her home, was grateful and relieved, of course, and explained to police what likely had happened. The little girl had been put to bed with other children earlier in the evening and when a head count was taken about 10:30 p.m., they came up one kid short.
The grandmother said the girl had somehow opened a door and left their home, which is located two blocks from where the man had found the youngster.
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April 25, 2009 3:42 PM
Seattle's police chief honored by Seattle University
Posted by Nick Provenza
Seattle University honored Seattle Police Chief Gil Kerlikowske in a ceremony held on the campus Friday.
Kerlikowske was recognized by the university and members of local law enforcement for his ethical leadership in law enforcement.
Among those present at the ceremony were senior representatives of the Seattle Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, the King County Sheriff's Office and the United States Marshal's Office.
Kerlikowske, a 36-year law-enforcement veteran, has been Seattle chief for nearly nine years.
President Obama last month nominated Kerlikowske, 59, as director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy.
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April 25, 2009 10:05 AM
Too many Monte Carlos...
Posted by Nick Provenza
There was another carjacking overnight, the latest one early this morning in SeaTac.
A woman called 911 at 2:18 a.m. to say that a man threw her out of her Monte Carlo at 1st Avenue South and South Washington Street in Seattle and drove off in it.
Before an alert went out, officers recalled seeing such a vehicle heading toward Interstate-5. A search began and the Seattle Police Department's gang unit spotted the Monte Carlo going south on I-5 near Tukwila. The driver got off the interstate at the South 188th Street exit in SeaTac.
Officers chased the car for about a minute when the Monte Carlo crashed into a sidewalk. Then, another Monte Carlo drove up and pulled his car between police and the car that had crashed. Police nabbed the drivers of both Monte Carlos and they were taken off to jail.
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April 25, 2009 9:21 AM
Man captured in Ballard carjacking
Posted by Nick Provenza
A man who pulled a handgun on a couple in Ballard and stole their car late Friday night was captured a short time later after crashing the car during a police chase.
The couple was walking to their car about 11 p.m. when a man came up to them and demanded they turn over their wallets, cellphones and car keys. The couple gave the man what he asked for and he then got into their BMW and drove off.
Police caught up to the car thief near Northwest 85th Street and 30th Avenue Northwest and tried to stop the BMW, but the man had other thoughts and sped away. Officers chased the car about three blocks when the thief drove into a dead end and crash the BMW into a fence.
He got out of the car and ran away. Canine tracking dogs were brought in and led officers to several parked cars in the driveway of a nearby house. The thief was found inside one of the cars and arrested.
The man was booked into the King County Jail for investigation of robbery.
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April 24, 2009 9:45 AM
3 Snohomish County men accused in huge burglary spree
Posted by Nick Provenza
Everett police believe that three men accused of breaking into a Lake Stevens grocery are responsible for more than 140 burglaries in the Puget Sound area.
Marysville detective Dan Vinson told The Herald in Everett that the three suspects, who would go out at least nightly, considered burglary their careers.
The men have been charged in Everett District Court with the Feb. 17 break-in at Jay's Market in Lake Stevens where video showed three men crawling across the floor to steal a safe with more than $4,000 in it.
The suspects are 49-year-old James M. Densmore, 44-year-old Byron J. Bowman, and his son 22-year-old Tyler B. Bowman.
Police from 30 agencies worked together to build a case against a burglary gang they say broke through business walls and targeted Taco restaurants.
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April 23, 2009 1:17 PM
Former Border Patrol deputy chief pleads guilty to child rape
Posted by John de Leon
Joseph W. Giuliano, once described as "the face of the Border Patrol in the Northwest," pleaded guilty to child rape charges today in Whatcom County Superior Court, the Belliingham Herald is reporting.
Giuliano, as a former deputy chief patrol agent, was the second in command for the U.S. Border Patrol's Blaine sector and was in charge of protecting the U.S. border in Western Washington, Oregon and Alaska.
Giuliano was arrested in October after admitting to detectives that he had sex at least 24 times with a 14-year-old girl living in his home.
Comments | Category: Child abuse/neglect , Sexual assault/molestation |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 23, 2009 10:57 AM
A bloody scene in Bellevue, but it's no 'Goodfellas'
Posted by John de Leon
The most unusual police call of the week comes from the Bellevue Police Department:
At 10:30 Tuesday morning, someone reported a large amount of blood was found at the Timberwood Apartments, 14500 block of Northeast 39th Street, after a garbage truck made its pickup. No doubt the call may have had some thinking back on the scene from "Goodfellas," when garbage haulers found a few gangsters' bodies amid the kitchen scraps and Hefty trash bags in their truck. Cue up "Layla" by Derek and the Dominos.
But it was later determined that the source of the blood was not human. A police account of the call does not identify the source.
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April 23, 2009 5:50 AM
Family's statement in Pike Place Market kidnapping
Posted by John de Leon
The family of a boy allegedly kidnapped during a visit to Pike Place Market on April 6 have released a statement after the man charged in the abduction, Robert Steiner Jr., pleaded not guilty on Wednesday. Here is the statement:
We, the parents of the little boy kidnapped at Pike Place Market on April 6th, have been repeatedly requested by the press to give an interview. We are truly grateful that the community of Seattle rejoices with us because we got our son back and finds comfort in the fact that the defendant is in custody, however, this situation is still extremely emotional for us so doing a live interview would be too difficult at this time. Also, we are trying to limit the use of our names so our son does not have to relive this every time his name is searched on the Internet as he grows up. In lieu of an interview, we share this with you in hopes of reminding parents of how quickly this can happen, to teach their children about safety and of the risks to any family in this situation.
We felt it was important for us to travel to Seattle to attend today's arraignment on behalf of our children and the children of Seattle. Of particular importance was the possibility that defense counsel might request a reduction in bail. We fear there will be a great risk to this community whenever he is released from custody.
We are extremely grateful to have our son with us and thank God that we were able to get him back so quickly. However, getting him back did not end this terrifying ordeal. We relive that frightening time when our son was taken every day and will forever live in horror of what might have happened if 15 more seconds had passed and the defendant was able to get our little boy out of sight. Our older children, at just 6 and 8, have become fearful and protective of their brother. Our formerly cheerful 5 year old son is now having nightmares, has not returned to school, fears people sneaking up on him, and cannot bring himself to be in the presence of any older man unknown to him because he fears "he might take me away." As heartbreaking as that is, we're working through these issues with the appropriate professionals and have faith that our son will recover.
Continue reading this post ...
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April 22, 2009 1:25 PM
DRAWING: Man with bad teeth robs Everett espresso stand
Posted by John de Leon
Everett police have released this sketch of a man who robbed an espresso stand in the 4100 block of Hoyt Avenue on April 11.
At about 5:40 a.m., the man knocked on the window of the espresso stand and ordered a drink. While the barista was preparing the drink, the man demanded money. When the victim turned to face the suspect she saw that he was pointing a handgun at her. The victim gave the money to the suspect, who then left on foot.
The suspect is described by police as a light-skinned Hispanic in his mid-20s, about 5-feet-6, 120 pounds with very distinctive black lower teeth. He was wearing a black pin-striped hoodie and black bandana.
Anyone who recognizes the suspect in the sketch or has any information regarding this case are asked to call the Everett Police Department TIP LINE at 425-257-8540.
Comments | Category: Robbery |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 22, 2009 10:32 AM
PHOTO: Scatt the cat recovering from brutal attack
Posted by John de Leon
Pasado's Safe Haven has released photos of a cat that was stabbed and slashed Sunday at The Cross Church in South Seattle. Pasado's reports that Scatt is recovering and could be returned to his family at the church in two to three days.
For more on Pasado's efforts to help Scatt, click here.
Meanwhile, the man who was arrested in connection with attack is expected to be charged today. When that happens, we'll post a story on our Web site.
Comments | Category: Animal cruelty |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 22, 2009 10:23 AM
Snohomish County car thief takes the bait and gets hooked
Posted by John de Leon
A suspected car thief was recently arrested and charged after he stole a "bait car" from a Snohomish County park-and-ride lot.
After two cars were recently stolen from the Mariner Park-and-Ride lot, Community Transit placed a bait car in the lot. The car was equipped with GPS, video recorder and cameras designed to record and capture images of anyone who climbed inside the vehicle.
When the suspect stole the bait car, the trip was so short authorities did not have a chance catch him in the act. But Snohomish County sheriff's deputies knew where the suspect left the vehicle because of the GPS. The car also recorded video and pictures of the thief driving off in it, so deputies knew who he was.
Deputies reviewed the tape, identified the suspect and later arrested him. In addition to the five charges of vehicle theft, thanks to the video the man also was charged with driving without a seatbelt and driving without a license.
Continue reading this post ...
Comments | Category: Auto theft , Weird, wacky or interesting |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 22, 2009 9:52 AM
Alleged Market kidnapper pleads not guilty
Posted by John de Leon
Robert Steiner Jr., the Ballard man who allegedly abducted a 5-year-old California boy at the Pike Place Market on April 6, pleaded not guilty this morning in King County Superior Court. We'll post a full story shortly.
Comments | Category: Kidnapping , King County courts |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 22, 2009 5:55 AM
POLICE REPORT: Man repeatedly tries to douse himself with gasoline
Posted by John de Leon
-- From Times staff reporter Christine Clarridge:
Seattle police have encountered a 39-year-old man who has apparently tried to kill himself six times in the past two weeks by either attempting to douse himself with gasoline or rolling his wheelchair into the middle of a busy street. According to Seattle police, the man is a chronic abuser of alcohol who seems bent on public suicide when he is intoxicated.
At around 11 p.m. Sunday, police were called to the intersection of 15th Avenue South and Beacon Avenue South after the man was reported to be in his wheelchair in the middle of the street, wearing dark clothing and screaming at passing motorists. One officer later wrote in a report: "In the past two weeks, I have responded to six calls involving (this man) trying to hurt himself. Of the six calls ... four of them have been the case of (the man) loitering around gas stations and removing the gas nozzle at the pumps and attempting to douse himself with gasoline and light himself on fire."
According to the officer's report, the man is usually taken to Harborview Medical Center, sobered up and then released. He then takes a bus back to Beacon Hill and then drinks all day until another 911 call is generated, police said.
The police officer talked with a hospital social worker about trying to get the man held involuntarily for a mental evaluation. The officer told hospital personnel that the man seems to be unable to care for himself and that his behavior is "escalating." The officer wrote that he is concerned for the safety of the man and people around him.
Police say they aren't sure if the man has been admitted to the hospital for further treatment.
Comments | Category: Attempted suicide , Weird, wacky or interesting |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 21, 2009 5:17 PM
POLICE REPORT: Couple would rather kiss than tell
Posted by John de Leon
-- From Times staff reporter Christine Clarridge:
A man and woman were sitting in a car on Beacon Avenue South early Sunday morning when they saw a group of kids throwing gang signs and then heard several gunshots. The couple considered calling 911, but decided on another course of action.
They "started making out instead," according to a Seattle police report.
Police were called to the Muslim Youth Academy at 11650 Beacon Ave. S. shortly after midnight in response to complaints about a group of 10 or more juveniles yelling, swearing, trespassing and being disorderly on the playground equipment at the site. When police arrived, the juveniles cursed the cops. One youth reportedly said, "Dog, don't let them catch us." as they fled.
When officers checked the area they found the amorous couple sitting in a car on a dead-end street. "The two were thinking about calling 911 when they heard the shots but started making out instead," police wrote in an incident report.
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April 21, 2009 3:38 PM
POLICE REPORT: Girl, 14, stabbed in head during gang fight
Posted by John de Leon
-- From Times staff reporter Christine Clarridge:
A 14-year-old girl was taken to Harborview Medical Center on Saturday after being stabbed in the head by another girl during a fight involving a juvenile street gang, according to Seattle police.
The stabbing near the intersection of Third Avenue and Pine Street was listed as a juvenile gang incident by responding officers. Police said the victim and another girl had been arguing when the victim hit the suspect, who responded by stabbing the victim.
The victim's friends, who police said were "very loud and very uncooperative," refused to help police identify the suspect and hinted they would take care of the matter themselves, according to a police report. Police noted that one of the victim's friends said, "I am not a snitch. I am not saying anything. We will find her."
When the mother of the victim was notified of the attack that left her daughter with a one-inch laceration on top of her head, the woman allegedly refused to go to the hospital and asked police if the girl could be left there for the night. The victim has since been released from the hospital.
Comments | Category: Assault/battery , Gangs |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 21, 2009 3:12 PM
Fetus in jar a mystery, but not a crime
Posted by John de Leon
-- From Times staff reporter Christine Clarridge:
A diver found a human fetus in a jar in Lake Washington earlier this month, but Seattle police say that absent a report of a missing fetus or any sinister sidenotes, they have nothing to investigate.
According to police, the diver found a large, sealed jar with a "suspicious substance" in about 20 feet of water near the 2800 block of Lake Washington Boulevard South on April 11. The jar was turned over the King County Medical Examiner's Office.
The jar is about 50 years old and appears to have come from a laboratory, according to police spokeswoman Renee Witt. She said there has been speculation that someone may have taken the jar from a lab, didn't know what to do with it and threw it in the lake.
Witt said the fetus was not viable and police have received no reports of a missing 50-year-old fetus.
"We don't have a crime and there's nothing else we can do with this," Witt said.
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April 21, 2009 2:38 PM
Unconscious man found on Greenwood street this morning
Posted by John de Leon
-- From Times staff reporter Sara Jean Green:
A man in his 30s was found unconscious and bleeding from a head injury early this morning in Seattle's Greenwood neighborhood.
Someone called 911 around 2 a.m. and officers found the man on the ground in the 8500 block Greenwood Avenue North. The man suffered life-threatening injuries and was listed in critical condition this afternoon in Harborview Medical Center, said Seattle police spokeswoman Renee Witt.
Homicide detectives are investigating, but police don't yet know if a weapon was used or if the man was beaten, she said. They're waiting for him to regain consciousness so they can question him, Witt said. A woman was with the man at the time, but Witt couldn't say what information she was able to provide police.
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April 21, 2009 10:40 AM
New details in case of Canadian gangster to be tried in Seattle
Posted by John de Leon
Clay Roueche, the leader of British Columbia's violent United Nations Gang, is one of Canada's most notorious gang members. He's currently awaiting trial in U.S. District Court in Seattle in connection with a cross-border smuggling case following his arrest last year in Texas.
B.C.'s Vancouver Sun is reporting that three men linked to the United Nations Gang have been charged with conspiracy to kill members of the rival Red Scorpion gang. The conspiracy charges lay out new information in the arrest of Roueche and the case U.S. prosecutors are preparing against him.
Comments | Category: Federal courts , Gangs , Smuggling |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 21, 2009 5:49 AM
Groundbreaking for new South Snohomish County fire station
Posted by John de Leon
Snohomish County Fire District 1 is hosting a groundbreaking ceremony at 5 p.m. Wednesday at the site of its new fire station at 3922 156th St. S.W. in Lynnwood. The public is invited.
The station will house an engine company and medic unit when it opens next spring. The location was selected to optimize response times after Fire District 1 conducted an extensive study that looked at call loads and patterns as well as travel times, according to a news release. The construction project is being paid for using levy funds from Fire District 1's capital improvement budget.
Fire District 1 currently staffs eight fire stations to serve the unincorporated areas of South Snohomish County and the cities of Mountlake Terrace and Brier. To view the fire district's Web site, including a map of the area it serves, click here.
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April 20, 2009 7:53 PM
STREAMING DOCUMENTS: Court filings in Honduran drug case
Posted by John de Leon
Most of the Honduran immigrants arrested Saturday during a police crackdown on drug-dealing in Belltown appeared in court this afternoon. Here are the probable cause documents filed against the suspects as well as a police description of the investigation.
Belltown PC Statements for Adult Suspects
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April 20, 2009 4:19 PM
The "Man Hands Bandit" strikes again
Posted by John de Leon
The bank robber dubbed the "Man Hand's Bandit" has struck again.
At 9:57 this morning the man robbed the First Security Bank at 620 Edmonds Way in Edmonds. He presented a demand note to the teller, but did not display or imply a weapon, according to the FBI. Once again, he tried to disguise himself by dressing as a woman.
He is described as a white man, about 6 feet tall and 200 pounds. He was wearing a long black wig, a black zip-front hoody with matching black pants and brown Puma shoes. He was also carrying a shiny silver purse.
He previously robbed the Kitsap County Credit Union in Poulsbo on April 13.
The nickname comes from an episode of "Seinfeld," a portion of which can be viewed by clicking here.
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April 20, 2009 11:59 AM
PHOTO: Woman honored for work with Bellevue police
Posted by John de Leon
Susan Allen, who has worked with the Bellevue Police Department in a variety of capacities for nearly 30 years, will receive the Governor's Volunteer Service Award today.
Allen has been an official Bellevue Police volunteer since 1995, but her history helping the department goes back to 1980, when she was active with Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Since then, she has worked at the Factoria Community Station, supported the Crime Analysis Unit, helped schedule and coordinate interview boards and now works in the Transit Center Community Station downtown. Allen also assists at annual events such as National Night Out and the Child Safety Fair.
Recipients of the Governor's Award are selected based longevity of service, number of hours volunteered, number and diversity of programs and/or organizations supported, and contributions to sustaining the programs they support, according to the Bellevue Police Department.
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April 20, 2009 10:24 AM
Suspected burglar lingers too long on Linger Longer Road
Posted by John de Leon
A Shelton man was arrested over the weekend after he was found unconscious on a beach in Quilcene with items believed to have been stolen from a nearby home, according to The Leader.
The man was "extremely intoxicated" when a Jefferson County sheriff's deputy responded to the beach around noon Saturday. The deputy discovered a home on nearby Linger Longer Road had been burglarized and items missing from that home matched the items found in the man's possession.
Comments | Category: Burglary , Weird, wacky or interesting |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 20, 2009 9:04 AM
UPDATE: Man's body found in water near Colman Dock
Posted by John de Leon
-- From Times staff reporter Sara Jean Green:
A man's body was found this morning in the water near Colman Dock.
A worker at the Washington State Ferry Terminal on Seattle's waterfront called 911 just before 8:30 a.m. to report seeing a body floating in the water beneath the dock, said a spokeswoman for the Seattle Fire Department.
The the body was found underneath the dock and close to shore in about 3 to 5 feet of water, said fire department spokeswoman Dana Vander Houwen.
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April 19, 2009 9:50 AM
Burglary suspect's luck runs out when he goes to Shell
Posted by John de Leon
Seattle police arrested a man for investigation of burglary after he tried to break into two apartments Saturday afternoon.
At 1:38 p.m., officers were dispatched to a burglary in progress in the 500 block of West Mercer Street. A man had climbed onto a second-floor balcony and was trying to get inside an apartment.
By the time police arrived the suspect had fled.
A second victim then confronted the same man trying to enter the second-floor porch of an apartment in the 600 block of West Mercer Place. Again, the suspect was gone by the time officers arrived.
The suspect was then reported walking near a Shell station in the 600 block of Elliott Avenue West where he was arrested.
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April 18, 2009 10:00 AM
"Tip-A-Cop" event to benefit Special Olympics Washington
Posted by John de Leon
If Banzai Burgers and endless steak fries aren't enough, here's another reason to visit a Red Robin restaurant today.
From noon to 8 p.m., law enforcement officers will serve as volunteer waiters at all 35 Red Robin restaurants in Washington in a benefit for Special Olympics Washington. During the "Tip-A-Cop" event, all tips the officers receive will go to the state's Special Olympics organization.
To find the nearest Red Robin and learn more about "Tip-A-Cop," click here.
To learn more about Special Olympics Washington, click here.
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April 18, 2009 9:02 AM
The week's score: Arsonists 2, porta-potties 0
Posted by John de Leon
At 12:10 this morning, Seattle police were called to a construction site in the alley between University Way Northeast and 15th Avenue Northeast after someone set fire to a portable toilet.
The flames from the fire charred the front of a house under construction and the side of the adjoining occupied multiplex to the south of it. There were no injuries.
Early Wednesday morning, someone set fire to a porta-potty in the 900 block of Second Avenue West.
Comments | Category: Arson , Fire , Weird, wacky or interesting |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 18, 2009 8:22 AM
Man injured in RV fire near Kent
Posted by John de Leon
A man was injured early this morning when a recreational vehicle caught fire near Kent.
The fire was reported at 1:08 am in the 21000 block of 148 Avenue Southeast. The first fire units to arrive reported the 30-foot RV was fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters were able to put out the fire before it spread to several propane tanks in the area.
A man who lives in a nearby home suffered cuts and smoke inhalation when he escaped the fire. He was transported to a local hospital as a precaution. The RV was not being used as a living space and was parked on a residential property.
A damage estimate was not immediately available.
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April 17, 2009 3:01 PM
PHOTO: Police want to question man in connection with Graham slayings
Posted by John de Leon
-- From Times staff reporter Ian Ith:
The Pierce County Sheriff's Office is appealing to the public to find a key witness in the April 4 slayings of five children by their father in Graham.
Sheriff's spokesman Ed Troyer said today that Shannon A. Comenout, 38, "refuses to cooperate and come in" to be interviewed for the investigation into the shootings.
Troyer said that's probably because Comenout has a $15,000 warrant for his arrest on unrelated domestic-violence charges in Pierce County. He is charged in District Court with misdemeanor assault for allegedly choking his then-girlfriend during an argument and knocking around her father. He hasn't shown up to court to answer the charges, Troyer said.
The Sheriff's Office is using that warrant to pass out CrimeStoppers wanted posters for Comenout offering a $1,000 reward, and for police to arrest him if they find him. But what they really want is to get him on the record about what happened before the shootings of the five children.
Police say Comenout was with Angela Harrison at an Auburn smoke shop April 3 when her husband, James Harrison, showed up demanding that she come home to their Graham mobile home. Angela Harrison refused, saying she was leaving the marriage. Then James Harrison drove home, fatally shot all five of their kids, drove back to Auburn and killed himself.
Troyer stressed that Comenout is not in any trouble for his involvement with Angela Harrison. But he's a vital witness for completing a thorough investigation.
"We need to speak to him to tighten up timelines so history does not rewrite itself in the future," Troyer said. "We don't want any loose ends on this at all."
Comenout is Native American, 5-feet-7, 200 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. He usually spends his time in Tacoma or Puyallup, Troyer said.
Anyone with information about Comenout can call a hotline at 253-591-5959. Callers can be anonymous.
Comments | Category: Domestic violence , Fugitives |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 17, 2009 1:36 PM
Hoover Crip sentenced to prison for cocaine possession
Posted by John de Leon
A 28-year-old Seattle man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to just over nine years in prison for possession of crack cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On June 24, Roberto Angel Chavez was pulled over for failing to stop at a red light, and was subsequently arrested for driving with a suspended license. Three of his children, aged 2 to 9 years old, were sitting in the back seat of his car. A drug-sniffing dog later found cocaine under the seat where the children had been sitting. Police also found a loaded handgun stashed with the drugs.
Chavez was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of severeal previous convictions from King County, including rendering criminal assistance, cocaine possession and second-degree robbery.
The rendering criminal assistance charge stems from a fatal shooting outside a club in downtown Seattle in May 2003. According to court records, Chavez approached a rival gang member outside the club and started an argument. Chavez, a member of the Hoover Crips street gang, pulled a gun on the unarmed rival. As the two squared off, another member of Chavez's gang approached and shot the rival gang member in the back of the head, killing him. Chavez fired two shots, but did not hit anyone.
Chavez was charged with second-degree attempted murder, but pleaded guilty to rendering criminal assistance and was sentenced to 18 months in prison.
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April 17, 2009 9:48 AM
Hit-and-run driver leaves behind evidence -- her car
Posted by John de Leon
Arlington police are looking for a 23-year-old woman in connection with a hit-and-run accident that occurred Wednesday near the Arlington Airport.
The woman was seen driving in the 18900 block of 45th Drive Northeast in excess of the 25
mph speed limit when she lost control of her car, according to police. The car swerved onto the sidewalk and struck a light pole.
No injuries were reported, but the driver left the scene on foot. The road had to be closed for two hours so the light pole could be removed.
Anyone with information on the crash or the driver is asked to call Arlington police at 360-403-3400.
Comments | Category: Traffic accidents , Weird, wacky or interesting |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 17, 2009 9:43 AM
North Seattle fire station to be dedicated Saturday
Posted by John de Leon
Seattle Fire Department's Station 31 will be dedicated tomorrow following the completion of extension renovations. The ceremony will include tours, displays of equipment and an opportunity to meet firefighters.
The dedication will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the station, 1319 N. Northgate Way.
Meanwhile, firefighters assigned to Fire Station 2 (2334 4th Ave.) were moved last month to temporary quarters at 301 Aurora Ave. N. while the existing fire station is remodeled. Construction is estimated to last 15 months.
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April 16, 2009 2:34 PM
PHOTOS: Dozens of firearms stolen in string of burglaries
Posted by John de Leon
-- From Times staff reporter Sara Jean Green:
Kitsap County sheriff's detectives recovered 60 stolen guns, cash, jewelry and electronic equipment Wednesday night after arresting two brothers from Port Hadlock who are suspected of committing at least five burglaries in Kitsap and Jefferson counties.
The brothers, 29 and 23, were each booked into the Kitsap County Jail on investigation of three counts of first-degree burglary and one count of trafficking in stolen property. The younger brother is also being held on suspicion of unlawful possession of a firearm and a warrant for a previous assault.
After the last robbery on Monday at a home in the 22900 block of Jefferson Point Road Northeast near Kingston, a patrol deputy discovered a common thread between the burglaries: A landscaping company had been hired by the residents of each house that was hit and the younger of the two brothers had done work at each of those properties, said sheriff's spokesman Scott Wilson. In Monday's burglary, 40 firearms, most of them antiques from the Civil War-era, were stolen, along with jewelry, cash and a knife collection, he said.
Detectives soon learned that the 23-year-old was attempting to sell some of the stolen guns and an undercover buy operation was organized, Wilson said. The brothers were arrested around 5:30 p.m. at Salsbury Point County Park, near the Hood Canal Bridge. Three stolen firearms were found in their car.
Continue reading this post ...
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April 16, 2009 1:12 PM
Man in critical condition after motorcycle crash
Posted by Nick Provenza
A motorcyclist is in critical condition today after losing control of his bike and crashing into a jersey barrier in Seattle about 8:30 Wednesday night, according to Seattle Police.
The accident occurred when the man was riding with two other motorcyclists on the Duwamish Avenue South access road. When the group turned south onto Duwamish Avenue South, one man lost control of his motorcycle, skidded along the road and landed against the jersey barrier.
The man was knocked unconscious. The other motorcyclists started CPR until paramedics arrived. The victim suffered a serious head injury and was taken to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle where he was listed in critical condition.
Seattle Police and Port of Seattle Police are investigating.
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April 16, 2009 11:59 AM
PHOTOS: Border Patrol finds duffel bags of "B.C. Bud"
Posted by John de Leon
U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Sumas Station found 149 pounds of "B.C. Bud" marijuana, with an estimated street value of nearly $750,000, in a wooded area along the border.
The pot was in three duffel bags that agents found early this morning in a wooded area near the border. They notified the Royal Canadian Mounted Police that the people believed to be transporting the pot may have fled into Canada. After searching the area for more than three hours, Border Patrol agents apprehended one individual. Canadian authorities also apprehended another person on the Canadian side of the international boundary.
Comments | Category: Drugs , Smuggling |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 16, 2009 9:40 AM
Sucker-punch results in life-threatening injury
Posted by John de Leon
A man suffered life-threatening injuries Wednesday night when he was sucker-punched during a fight in the 4700 block of University Way Northeast.
At 11:30 p.m., an argument between two men escalated into a fight, according to police. The suspect sucker-punched the victim in the face, knocking him to the ground. The victim's head struck the curb, causing a severe head injury.
The suspect walked away and could not be located by responding officers.
Medics said the victim's status was considered life-threatening. Police said the victim, 55, was still unconscious this morning and could not be interviewed.
Comments | Category: Assault/battery |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 16, 2009 8:05 AM
POLICE REPORT: Fox loses tail to three hounds
Posted by John de Leon
-- From Times staff reporter Christine Clarridge:
A 22-year-old California woman told police that she was and assaulted by three muscular men with buzz cuts. And worst of all, they stole her tail.
According to a Seattle police report, the woman was wearing a fox costume when she left a rave at or near the Washington State Convention & Trade Center early Sunday morning. She was walking in the 700 block of Pike Street, where she was accosted by three men who ripped the tail off her costume.
The woman tried to retrieve the tail and was thrown against a wall, police said. She then grabbed one of the men, put him in a headlock and wrestled him to the ground. But, according to the police report, "the suspect seemed to laugh at her like it was a big joke."
Two witnesses called police but did not intervene in the tail-snatching incident.
Neither the tail nor the suspects were found by police.The only description offered of the assailants was that they were muscular, white and had buzz cuts.
Comments | Category: Assault/battery , Robbery , Weird, wacky or interesting |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 16, 2009 7:48 AM
Shots fired at car in Southeast Seattle
Posted by Nick Provenza
A car parked near 46th Avenue and South Warsaw Street in Southeast Seattle was hit by several bullets early this morning and Seattle Police are looking for the shooter.
No one was injured in the shooting which occurred shortly after 1 a.m..
Officers who responded found shell casings and the damaged vehicle. The residence where the car was parked has been shot at several times in the past, police said.
No suspects were found. Police are looking for what was described as a dark colored vehicle, possibly a Chevrolet Impala.
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April 15, 2009 8:27 PM
Benefit Thursday for Seattle DJ who died after altercation
Posted by John de Leon
-- From Times staff reporter Christine Clarridge:
Family and friends of Troy Duncan, a 37-year-old Seattle DJ who died April 3 after being beaten by two men in downtown Seattle,
Belltown, are holding a benefit Thursday night at the Last Supper Club, 124 S. Washington St.
According to Duncan's friend Holly Ann Kuc, DJs from around the country will be at the Pioneer Square club "spinning" from Duncan's record collection. Proceeds from the benefit will be used to cover medical bills, funeral expenses and to start a college fund for Duncan's 1-year-old son.
Police said Duncan died at Harborview Medical Center after a March 28 altercation with two men near the intersection of Pike Street and Second Avenue. Two men, ages 24 and 29, were questioned and released. Police said the details of what led up to the altercation are unclear and still under investigation.
According to Kuc, Duncan was leaving a club when -- for reasons unknown to his friends and family -- he was attacked by the two men. "They held him down, stepped on his neck and beat him into a coma," she said.
Duncan was a promoter and a DJ at Club Noc Noc on Second Avenue, Kuc said. She said Duncan was "a really positive person who was all about love, happiness and everybody getting along."
There will be a $10 cover to attend the benefit that's scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. For more information, see the Last Supper Club's Web site by clicking here.
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April 15, 2009 6:12 PM
Female student assaulted near the UW
Posted by John de Leon
University of Washington police said a female student was assaulted near campus Tuesday evening.
At 8:13 p.m., the UW student was approached by a man at the intersection of University Way Northeast and Northeast 41st Street. The man asked the student for $20. When the student refused, the man asked for the money a second time. When she again refused, the man punched the victim in the face.
The man then fled, but was located by a UW police officer a few blocks away and arrested. The victim was treated at the scene by medics, but the extent of her injuries were not immediately known.
On April 8, a female UW student was attacked from behind by two or three female suspects, who knocked the victim to the ground and took her backpack containing a laptop computer and wallet. No one has been arrested in that assault, which occurred near Northeast 41st Street and 11th Avenue Northeast.
Comments | Category: Assault/battery |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 15, 2009 1:43 PM
PHOTO: Poulsbo police seek "Man Hands Bandit"
Posted by John de Leon
The FBI and Poulsbo police have released this photo of a man who dressed as a woman and donned a wig to rob the Kitsap County Credit Union on Monday. He wore a black pantsuit, white shirt and white shoes. The robber has been dubbed "the Man Hands Bandit" because his large hands belied his outfit.
The nickname is from an episode of "Seinfeld." If you're a fan, you'll know. If not, click here.
The man walked into the credit union at 19045 Highway 305 at 10:10 a.m. and handed a teller a note demanding cash. He left with a small amount of cash in a dark blue mid-1990s two-door hatchback, possibly a Geo Metro.
Anyone with information on the robber is asked to call Poulsbo police at 360-697-8242; or the Seattle FBI at 206-622-0460
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April 15, 2009 11:04 AM
PHOTO: Van may have been used in Bremerton abduction
Posted by John de Leon
Bremerton police have released this photo of a van that may have been used in an possible abduction Saturday night.
Two children, ages 8 and 11, told authorities they witnessed the abduction of two people at gunpoint Saturday night at a Bremerton apartment complex in the 3200 block of Pine Road Northeast. Bremerton Police Sgt. Kevin Crane said their stories appear to be credible, and video of the van leaving the apartment complex corroborates their story, he said.
Detectives continue to investigate the incident, but so far have no new information, Crane tells the Kitsap Sun.
Bremerton police said the male victim was described as Hispanic, about 5-feet-9, with puffy brown hair. He was wearing a gray and red jacket with black shorts. The female victim was described as white with blond hair in a ponytail. Police said she was wearing a black, red and white jacket and jeans. Both victims were reported to be in their late teens or 20s.
Police said the suspect was described as a black man in his late 20s or early 30s, about 6 feet tall with a muscular build and short dark hair. He was wearing a white shirt and dark pants.
Anyone with information about the van and abduction is asked to call 911.
Comments | Category: Kidnapping |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 15, 2009 10:23 AM
Car plunges into Stillaguamish River, two injured
Posted by Nick Provenza
STANWOOD, Wash. - KING5.com reports that two people were injured when the car they were traveling in ran off the road and into the Stillaguamish River this morning.
The Snohomish County Sheriff's Office says the one-car accident occurred at Marine Drive and Rydjord Road.
A female victim said to be in her late teens or early 20s was rescued from the car.
The extent of the victims' injuries and the cause of the accident weren't immediately available.
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April 15, 2009 8:48 AM
Three arsons on Queen Anne early this morning
Posted by Nick Provenza
Two Dumpster fires and a fire in a portable toilet were discovered on Queen Anne early this morning, according to the Seattle Fire Department.
The fires occurred between 2:15 a.m. and2:45 a.m.
The first fire occurred in the 1400 block of Queen Anne Avenue North in a Dumpster.
Another fire, also in a Dumpster, occurred at 21 West Lee Street. A third fire occurred in the 900 block of Second Avenue West in a port-a-potty at a construction site.
No witnesses or suspects have been found. Anyone with information regarding these fires are asked to call 911.
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April 15, 2009 8:29 AM
Teen's crash in Mason County kills brother
Posted by Nick Provenza
ALLYN, Mason County -- The State Patrol says a 16-year-old was driving the car that crashed into a utility pole in Mason County, killing his 14-year-old brother.
Jordan McGuire died at the scene Tuesday on Highway 3, about 14 miles north of Shelton.
The driver, 16-year-old Joshua McGuire suffered head and neck injuries and is in Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.
The patrol says he was driving to school when his car left the road.
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April 15, 2009 6:27 AM
Two arrested in Silverdale home-invasion robbery
Posted by John de Leon
Two men were arrested early this morning after a home-invasion robbery at The Madison at Ridgetop apartments at 1157 Voyager Lane Northwest in Silverdale.
According to the Kitsap County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to the apartment at around 12:50 a.m. after a neighbor complained of a disturbance. When deputies arrived they looked through a window and saw two masked men had tied up three people -- a woman and two men -- inside the apartment.
Deputies forced their way into the apartment and began fighting with the two masked men, both of whom appeared to be armed. After the men were subdued, deputies found one was armed with a handgun and the other had a realistic-looking pellet gun.
The two men arrested were a 22-year-old, who was also wanted on an outstanding 2006 arrest warrant for robbery; and a 19-year-old.
The motive for the home invasion appears to be robbery, the Sheriff's Office said. Deputies are trying to determine why that specific apartment was targeted.
In addition, deputies want to question the occupants of a black 2005 Hyundai Accent in connection with the robbery. The car's Washington license plate number is 948-WCK.
Comments | Category: Assault/battery , Home invasion , Robbery |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 15, 2009 5:53 AM
Six arrested after break-in at closed Delridge school
Posted by John de Leon
Seattle police arrested two adults and four juveniles
Monday Tuesday after they had broken into an unused elementary school building in the 3800 block of Southwest Findlay Street.
Officers responded to a silent alarm around 4:39 p.m. and surrounded the building. Three suspects fled and were apprehended by officers after a chase. Police then went inside the building and arrested the remaining three.
All six male suspects were transported to the department's Southwest Precinct. Two of the suspects are young adults and four of the suspects are juveniles.
According to police, preliminary investigation indicates that there was no property damage inside the building. It wasn't immediately known if the suspects were booked for investigation of burglary.
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April 14, 2009 2:40 PM
Whidbey Island business shut down because of meth contamination
Posted by John de Leon
The Island County Health Department has temporarily shut down a car dealership near Oak Harbor after the business was found to be contaminated with methamphetamine residue, according to the Whidbey News Times.
"It was contaminated to levels we haven't seen before in the county," Marie Piper, an environmental health specialist, tells the newspaper. "We're getting higher numbers than we get in meth labs."
The Island County Sheriff's Office arrested 41-year-old Nolan Brown, the operator of the car lot, on March 5 on suspicion of dealing meth. The county health department tested the building and three cars for meth residue and found high levels of contamination.
The resideue left behind by meth and its production can cause long-term health problems, which we reported in a 2006 story on cleaning up meth labs.
Comments | Category: Drugs , Weird, wacky or interesting |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 14, 2009 11:18 AM
After 50 years, SFD says goodbye to Kenny Hoefner
Posted by John de Leon
Friends and colleagues are saying goodbye today to Kenny Hoefner, who retired in February after more than 50 years as a Seattle firefighter. The party is at Seattle Fire Department headquarters.
Kenny, 72, started with the department when he was 22. He has only worked at two stations, starting at Station 14 on Fourth Avenue South before moving to Station 33 in 1972.
We did a short item on Kenny when he was about to pull the pin and it can be viewed by clIcking here.
Here's to a long retirement, Kenny!
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April 14, 2009 7:36 AM
Bremerton man warned not to shoot potato gun in the city
Posted by Nick Provenza
The Kitsap Sun reports that a Bremerton man has been warned twice not to use his potato gun in the city...
On Saturday, an officer warned the man a second time that it's illegal to shoot such a gun within city limits, according to Bremerton Police reports.
The 30-year-old man was found preparing to shoot a potato on the 2000 block of Magnuson Way around 6 p.m. Saturday.
The gun was made out of PVC pipe and the man had been using hairspray as the "explosive discharge" for the gun, police said.
The officer took the potato from the gun's barrel and told the man that the device is considered a firearm and cannot be fired in the city.
The man claimed he'd misunderstood the officer's first warning about the gun. A report has been forwarded to the Kitsap County Prosecutor's Office for review. The man was not arrested.
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April 14, 2009 6:16 AM
KOMO TV: Fed Way students expelled for prank on teacher
Posted by Nick Provenza
Two students were expelled and arrested after an incident in which a teacher was sickened on Monday at a Federal Way school, according to KOMO TV. See their story here.
A teacher became seriously ill after taking a sip of coffee Monday morning. She was taken to the hospital, but not before telling school officials that she had seen some students hanging around her desk earlier.
"The administrators put two and two together and talked to those students to find out if, in fact, they were involved in putting something in her coffee," said Diane Turner with the Federal Way School District.
The students admitted to having added Ipecac, a syrup that induces vomiting, to their teacher's coffee.
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April 14, 2009 5:49 AM
Police bust "active" teen U-District burglars
Posted by John de Leon
Seattle police believe two juveniles arrested over the weekend during a burglary in the University District may be responsible for other break-ins in the area.
At about 12:45 a.m. Saturday, officers responded to a call of a burglary in progress in the 4500 block of 18th Avenue Northeast. The caller told police she saw two suspects prying open a window at the home of a neighbor who was not there. Responding officers saw the suspects inside the residence.
Both suspects were arrested and booked into the Youth Services Center. A police news release says both teens are believed to be "active" burglars in the area.
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April 13, 2009 7:35 AM
UPDATE: Driver in SeaTac shooting dies overnight
Posted by John de Leon
A man wounded last week in a shooting at a SeaTac intersection during rush hour has died of his wounds at Harborview Medical Center, the King County Sheriff's Office reports. The man was identified as the driver of a Cadillac that was fired upon allegedly by a man who left in a Ford Taurus.
To read our story, click here.
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April 13, 2009 6:30 AM
North Seattle fire station to be dedicated Saturday
Posted by John de Leon
Seattle Fire Department's Station 31 will be dedicated this weekend following the completion of extension renovations. The ceremony will include tours, displays of equipment and an opportunity to meet firefighters.
The dedication will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the station, 1319 N. Northgate Way.
Meanwhile, firefighters assigned to Fire Station 2 (2334 4th Ave.) were moved last month to temporary quarters at 301 Aurora Ave. N. while the existing fire station is remodeled. Construction is estimated to last 15 months.
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April 12, 2009 9:23 AM
Woman wounded in shooting in Judkins Park
Posted by John de Leon
The Seattle Police Department's Gang Unit is investigating a shooting last night in the Judkins Park neighborhood that left a woman with wounds to her hand and foot.
At about 10:16 p.m., officers responded to several calls of shots fired in the 2700 block of South Irving Street. Police found a 22-year-old woman who had been wounded in a shooting.
The victim was treated by Seattle Fire Department medics and taken to Harborview Medical Center. Police said this morning it does not appear that the victim's injuries are life-threatening.
Officers searched the area, but no arrests have been made.
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April 11, 2009 9:53 AM
Man arrested for pointing handgun at another man
Posted by John de Leon
A man was booked into jail for investigation of assault early this morning after he pointed a handgun at another man.
At approximately 1:30 a.m., a traffic officer was driving in the 1900 block of First Avenue when he saw a man grabbing at a woman. The man was holding a semi-automatic handgun. As the officer turned around the man hid the gun in the rear of his waistband.
The officer got out of his car and ordered the man to the ground. Police describe the man as "less than cooperative" so he was arrested after a brief struggle. Officers recovered a loaded 9 mm semi-automatic handgun from the man.
Police later learned the man and his girlfriend had been drinking at a nearby bar and got into an argument. When a bystander tried to intervene, the man pulled his gun, pointed it in the bystander's face and told him to back off. He then waved it at a group of people who'd followed the couple from the bar.
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April 11, 2009 9:17 AM
Beacon Hill burglars busted
Posted by John de Leon
Two teens were arrested Friday afternoon after they were caught running out of a house they had just burglarized, according to Seattle police.
At 3:20 p.m., police responded to a 911 call of a burglary in progress in the 4000 block of South Holden Street and surrounded the home. The two teens ran out of the back door of the house, ran from officers, climbed over a fence, but were nonetheless arrested. The teens had property taken from the home, police said.
One suspect, a 16-year-old boy, was booked into the Youth Service Center for investigation of burglary. The second, an 18-year-old man, was booked into the King County Jail for investigation of burglary.
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April 10, 2009 4:00 PM
Three now in custody in SeaTac shooting
Posted by John de Leon
King County sheriff's detectives have now arrested three of the four people they believe were responsible for a shooting Tuesday afternoon at a SeaTac intersection.
A suspect, 21, was arrested this morning in Burien by detectives. Another suspect, 21, was detained in Idaho just before noon today by local authorities. King County sheriff's detectives are currently in route to interview him.
The driver of the getaway car, age 20, was arrested shortly after the shooting after he was dropped off at Riverton Hospital. He had suffered a "very serious" gunshot wound to his groin area inflicted when one of his cohorts accidently fired off a pistol he was holding. He has been booked on four counts of assault.
Two men were wounded, one of them critically, when a man jumped out of the Taurus just after 4 p.m. Tuesday and fired an assault rifle into a Cadillac that was stopped in traffic at the intersection of International Boulevard South and South 188th Street, according to the Sheriff's Office. A 20-year-old woman and her 2-year-old son were in the back seat of the Cadillac but were not hit.
The suspects are believed to be the men in the Taurus.
The Cadillac's 23-year-old driver and his 21-year-old passenger, both from Seattle, were taken to Harborview Medical Center with multiple gunshot wounds.
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April 10, 2009 2:22 PM
PHOTO: Poulsbo bank robbery suspect behind bars
Posted by John de Leon
A 57-year-old Suquamish man suspected of robbing the Westsound Bank in Poulsbo earlier this week has been arrested, police said.
The bank was robbed Tuesday afternoon by a man in his 50s who passed a note to a teller demanding cash. The suspect was given an undisclosed amount of money and fled. Poulsbo police released a surveillance photo (below) of the suspect. Police said the man wore eyeglasses, a outback-style fedora hat, a red shirt, New England Patriots parka-type jacket, a dark gray/faded black denim pants and brown work boots.
Police developed information that led to the suspect, who was booked into the Kitsap County Jail early this morning for investigation of robbery.
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April 10, 2009 1:41 PM
UPDATE: Federal Way police seek murder charge in baby's death
Posted by John de Leon
Federal Way police today said they will recommend charges of second-degree murder against the 14-year-old mother of a baby whose body was found in her apartment on Thursday.
In addition, the father of the infant, a 20-year-old Federal Way man, has been arrested in connection with the case for investigation of sceond-degree child rape due to the age of the mother, police said. The father was not involved in the death in any manner, police said.
King County prosecutors will determine whether charges that will be filed against the couple.
We will post a full story shortly.
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April 10, 2009 12:46 PM
BREAKING NEWS: Man sentenced for felling old-growth cedars
Posted by John de Leon
Craig A. James, 48, of Aberdeen, was sentenced this morning in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to two years in prison for cutting down 31 old-growth Western cedar trees in the Olympic National Forest in 2006. Federal prosecutors say some of the trees were nearly 600 years old.
We will post a full story shortly.
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April 10, 2009 10:33 AM
Soap stops Everett suspect from clean getaway
Posted by Nick Provenza
EVERETT -- A bystander who saw a man grab a woman's purse in an Everett grocery store parking lot kept the purse-snatcher from making a clean getaway by smacking him on the head with a jug of laundry soap.
Papers filed in Everett District Court say the bystander held the 31-year-old Everett man until police arrived.
The Everett Herald reports that in addition to the March 26 mugging, he's suspected of purse snatchings at the Everett Mall in March and at an Edmonds grocery last June and of a burglary last July in Bothell.
He's held in the Snohomish County Jail for investigation of theft and burglary charges.
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April 10, 2009 10:07 AM
Robber hits Roosevelt neighborhood espresso stand
Posted by John de Leon
An espresso stand in the 7800 block of Lake City Way Northeast was robbed last night.
According to police, man armed with a small handgun robbed the barista at about 6:48 p.m. and then fled north on12th Avenue Northeast. Police responded and checked the area, but were unable to locate the suspect, who was described as between the ages of 25 and 30, approximately 5-feet-8 and140 pounds. He wore a cream-colored beanie with holes, a black sweatshirt, white T-shirt and blue jeans.
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April 10, 2009 9:39 AM
Mental evaluation ordered in Mossyrock killing of convenience store operator
Posted by Nick Provenza
CHEHALIS -- The scheduled arraignment for a man accused of running down a Mossyrock convenience store owner has been postponed for his mental evaluation.
John David Joel Angeline reportedly told police he was the Lord and he thought the victim was a Buddha trying to cast a spell on him.
Police had to use a stun gun to subdue the 41-year-old Lakewood man when he was arrested Monday for investigation of murder.
A Lewis County deputy prosecutor told KITI Thursday that Angeline's evaluations at Western State Hospital would take about three months.
The owner of the Flying K market, 53-year-old Soon Yang, ran in front of a pickup that was leaving without paying a $34 gas bill.
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April 10, 2009 9:30 AM
Ferry dock camera alert cops to stolen car
Posted by John de Leon
A camera installed at the Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal that automatically snaps photos of license plates helped police seize a stolen car and arrest two people, the State Patrol reports.
The camera alerted police to a stolen 2005 Kia Amante being driven into the ferry terminal. Bainbride Island police responded and arrested the 42-year-old female driver and 41-year-old male passenger, both of the Port Townsend area. A news release on the incident does not say when the incident occurred.
A check of their driver's licenses indicated that they each had a warrant for their arrest. The driver had a no bail warrant out of Kelso for driving with a suspended license. The passenger had a $5,000 felony warrant out of Seattle for a narcotic violation. He was also wanted for an escape from state department of Corrections community custody. The State Patrol says he has been on the run since May 23.
Both have been booked into the Kitsap County Jail for possession of stolen
property and warrants. The male passenger is also under investigation for possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.
The State Patrol says this is the first valid alert on the system since the cameras were installed at the Bainbridge Island and Seattle ferry terminals in July. The system searches for felony warrants, stolen vehicles, AMBER Alerts and terrorist watch lists. When we wrote about the system last year, a majority of readers said they didn't agree with the program.
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April 10, 2009 6:00 AM
POLICE REPORT: Woman does indecent double exposure
Posted by John de Leon
-- From Times staff reporter Christine Clarridge:
Seattle police on Monday arrested a woman for investigation of indecent exposure earlier this week. So what was the first thing she did once she was behind bars? She kicked off her shorts again.
According to a police report, the 29-year-old woman was sunbathing for several hours Monday at Cal Anderson Park with her shirt pulled up and her shorts pulled down. She resisted numerous attempts by passersby who urged her to cover up.
According to police, bystanders reported that groups of men had walked around the half-naked woman, ogling her. Even a gaggle of preschoolers strolled by. People tried several times to pull the woman's shirt down or cover her with the towel she was laying on, but to no avail, police said.
When officers arrived they told the woman they would allow her to leave the park if she would only cover herself, or give them an address to take her to, but she refused.
The woman was arrested. As soon as she was processed into a holding cell, she "promptly kicked her shorts off again," police said.
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April 9, 2009 6:15 PM
POLICE REPORT: Man puts the bite on roadside musician
Posted by John de Leon
-- From Times staff reporter Christine Clarridge:
Everybody's a critic.
A 59-year-old man was attacked and bitten by a stranger this week while he was strumming his guitar outside his motorhome.
According to a Seattle Police Department report, the victim was sitting outside his motorhome, which was parked in the 13700 block of Aurora Avenue North, on Monday. He said he was playing a song he had written and enjoying the weather when a stranger approached him and attacked him without provocation.
The victim grabbed the stranger and had him in a chokehold, when the suspect bit him. The assailant then left on foot.
Officers responded but were unable to locate the suspect.
The victim, when contacted later by phone, said he's pretty sure it wasn't the quality of his music that incited the attack. "No, I'm pretty good. I've been playing a long time," he said. "I think he just had something against me."
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April 9, 2009 3:27 PM
KING-TV: Dead baby found in Federal Way apartment
Posted by John de Leon
Our news partners at KING-TV are reporting that police in Fedral Way police are at an apartment complex where they say a dead baby was found this morning.
Police responded to the apartment after someone called 911 to report a newborn baby was found inside an apartment in the 2200 Block of South Star Lake Road.
Police tell KING-TV that a 14-year-old girl first complained of heavy bleeding and was rushed to the hospital by a family member. Police say another person walked into the girl's bedroom and saw the baby on a bed.
It's unclear whether the baby was stillborn or alive at the time of the birth.
We'll update this story when we get new details.
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April 9, 2009 12:52 PM
Knock off the knockoffs in Lakewood, Pierce County
Posted by Nick Provenza
Worried that their city is becoming known for counterfeit handbags, watches, shoes and other knockoff merchandise, officials in the Tacoma suburb of Lakewood have put out the word: Knock it off.
This week, city workers swept through the B&I Marketplace to check licenses and distribute warning letters to about 60 stores at the shopping center south of Tacoma. In the letter, City Manager Andrew Neiditz writes that Lakewood is cracking down on businesses that sell unlicensed clothing and similar merchandise.
B&I officials say they have told shopkeepers they can't sell counterfeit goods, and there haven't been any problems for about a year. Many store owners say they favor the crackdown because it isn't fair that some people sell illegal items cheaply.
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April 9, 2009 11:12 AM
Seattle Muni Court says it restricted online ticket info "in error"
Posted by John de Leon
From Times staff reporter Jim Brunner:
A Seattle Municipal Court spokeswoman says the court made a mistake recently when an upgrade to its Web site eliminated the ability to look up misdemeanors and infractions by name.
The new system requires visitors to the site to enter a person's precise birthdate to obtain records. That's fine if you are looking up yourself -- or your mother -- but makes it difficult to get information on other people.
After fielding complaints about the new system, including griping from several Seattle Times reporters, court spokeswoman Patti McBride emailed this morning to say the change was made "in error" and will be fixed next Tuesday.
"Users of the site will then be able to access information using last name and first name," she said.
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April 9, 2009 10:44 AM
Man slices ex-girlfriend and her mother in South Seattle
Posted by John de Leon
The 45-year-old man has been booked into King County Jail on two counts of investigation of domestic violence after he allegedly assaulted his ex-girlfriend and her mother in Seattle.
At 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Seattle PD South Precinct officers responded to a call in the 4500 block of 15th Avenue South to investigate reports of a serious felony assault. The officers were told that the ex-boyfriend of a female resident had come to the home and began to argue with the woman. The ex-boyfriend cut the victim with a broken bottle, police said.
When the victim's mother tried to intervene, the suspect also cut her, police said.
Both victims were taken to Harborview Medical Center.
The suspect drove to Bellevue, where he later surrended to Bellevue police.
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April 9, 2009 6:17 AM
PHOTO: Police seek Poulsbo bank robber
Posted by John de Leon
Poulsbo police have released this photo of a man suspected of robbing a Westsound Bank branch in Poulsbo on Tuesday.
The man walked into the Westsound Bank on Viking Avenue at about 1:20 p.m. and passed a note to a teller demanding cash. He got an undisclosed amount of money and left in a red and black Chevrolet S-10 or GM pickup, police said.
The robber is described as between 55 and 60 years old, about 5-feet-7, with a black and white beard. He wore eyeglasses, a outback-style fedora hat, a red shirt, New England Patriots parka-type jacket, a dark gray/faded black denim pants and brown work boots.
Anyone with information on the suspect is asked to call the FBI at 206-622-0460, or the Poulsbo Police Department at 360-779-3113.
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April 8, 2009 6:18 PM
PHOTO: Man sought in fatal Tacoma shooting
Posted by John de Leon
-- From Times staff reporter Christine Clarridge:
Tacoma police are looking for a 19-year-old man in connection witn a fatal shooting last month.
A $1,000 reward is being offered for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of Kacy James Estes. Estes is 5-feet-9 and 165 pounds. He has brown hair and brown eyes.
Detectives say that Estes shot and killed Crystal Rhoads and critically wounded another man at a home in the Salishan area of Tacoma on March 31 when he and two other men were attempting to rob the victims after an argument. Estes has been charged with murder, first-degree assault and unlawful possession of a firearm and a warrant has been issued for his arrest.
According to police, Estes should be considered armed and dangerous.
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April 8, 2009 3:40 PM
VIDEO: Suspects in Tuesday's SeaTac shooting
Posted by John de Leon
The King County Sheriff's Office today released a video that was taken just after a shooting Tuesday in SeaTac left three people wounded. Detectives hope someone will recognize the suspects seen in the video.
Two men suffered critical wounds and a third was wounded in the groin. The third man's injury may have been self-inflicted, but detectives say the circumstances surrounding that injury remain unclear.
The video starts just after about 20 gunshots were fired from an AK-47 or similar rifle by occupants of a Ford Taurus at a stopped Cadillac containing by four people, include a 2 year-old boy. Detectives now believe there were at least two shooters and at least two guns. The shooting occurred just south of the intersection of South 188th Street and International Boulevard at about 4:08 p.m.
About 8 seconds into the video the victims' Cadillac can be seen trying to force its way through congested traffic after the shots were fired. Then the suspects' Taurus comes into clear view as three suspects clamber back into the car and it flees northbound on International Boulevard.
Detectives would like to speak with anyone who was stuck in traffic and may be able to identify the suspects. The Taurus used by the shooters has been recovered.
Witnesses are asked to call the Sheriff's Office at 206-296-3311.
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April 8, 2009 11:21 AM
Sunshine brings Washington rash of cycle fatals
Posted by Nick Provenza
Recent warm weather increased the numbers of motorcycles on Washington highways --and the number of motorcycle accidents.
The Washington State Patrol says there have been at least four motorcycle fatalities in the past two weeks bringing the total so far this year to 11.
Lt. Michael Turcott says that compares with 7 at this time last year. The total number of fatalities last year on street-licensed motorcycles was 76.
Turcott says, "If we have lots of weekends like this, it's going to be a very bad year."
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April 8, 2009 11:20 AM
Marysville house fire blamed on candle
Posted by John de Leon
Fire investigators believe a house fire this morning in Marysville was caused by a candle that hed been left unattended.
At about 6:40 am, Marysville Fire District crews responded to a fire at a house on Alder Avenue, between Fifth and Sixth streets, The first crews to arrive found smoke and flames coming from the home. Some fireworks that had been stored in the home had ignited, according to fire officials.
No injuries were reported. A cat is missing, but it is presumed to have fled the house. The resident will stay with friends.
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April 8, 2009 6:12 AM
Medina cop accused of sexually assaulting woman
Posted by John de Leon
Our news partners at KING-TV report a Medina police officer has been accused of sexually assaulting a woman in November.
The 30-year-old officer is being investigated by the Issaquah Police Department, where the crime is alleged to have happened, according to KING-TV.
Medina Police Chief Jeff Chen tells KING-TV he learned of the allegations two weeks ago, and took immediate action.
"I immediately had to place the officer on paid administrative leave, and have taken the officer off street duty," Chen said in a telephone interview.
The officer, a four-year veteran, has not been charged.
We will post updates on this story on The Times' Web site.
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April 8, 2009 5:58 AM
TRAFFIC ALERT: East Main Street in Monroe reduced to one lane
Posted by John de Leon
Monroe's East Main Street, between Highway 2 and the railroad tracks, will be reduced to a single lane with alternating traffic.
The traffic revision will be in effect between 6:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. today and Thursday so crews can replace a broken water main. Earlier, traffic had been reduced to one lane in each direction.
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April 7, 2009 4:18 PM
Man shot in chest this afternoon in Rainier Valley
Posted by John de Leon
From Times staff reporter Charles E. Brown --
A 29-year-old man was shot in the chest around 2:24 p.m. today at Rainier Avenue South and South Garden Street, according to Seattle police.
Police said the shooter walked up to the victim and shot him an unknown number of times. The man then left the area on foot and has not yet been found. The suspect is in his early 20s.
The victim was taken to Harborview Medical Center, where his condition was not immediately known.
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April 7, 2009 3:52 PM
Man breaks into Wallingford restaurant, beans owner with jar
Posted by John de Leon
Seattle police are looking for a man who broke into a restaurant early this morning and then attacked the owner.
According to police, the man broke out the glass in the front door of a restaurant in the 1700 block of North 45th Street just after 2 a.m. Once inside the business, the man took cash from the cash register.
The business owner, who was upstairs, went downstairs and confronted the man. The owner and the man got into a fight and the owner was struck on the head with a heavy jar. The man was able to break free and ran out of the restaurant, police said.
Police arrived and tried to tried to track the robber with a K-9 unit but had no luck. The victim was treated at the scene by Seattle Fire Department medics.
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April 7, 2009 2:36 PM
PHOTOS: Ecstasy bust at U.S.-Canada border
Posted by John de Leon
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Pacific Highway Port of Entry arrested a 53-year-old Surrey, B.C. man on Monday for attempting to smuggle 107,339 tablets of ecstasy worth more than $1 million into the U.S.
The ecstasy was discovered hidden within the spare tire of a 1999 pickup being driven by Paul Tremblay. The ecstacy was in 30 packages of multi-colored tablets. Tremblay was arrested and turned over to agents from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for further investigation and prosecution.
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April 7, 2009 10:59 AM
Kidnapping foiled at Pike Place Market
Posted by John de Leon
A 65-year-old Seattle man was arrested Monday for investigation of kidnapping after he allegedly tried to abduct a child at the Pike Place Market, Seattle police report.
According to the parents, the man tried to abduct their 5-year-old son while the couple and their three children were at the market. The man was leading the child away when they were spotted by the mother, who called for her son and he ran to her. The man disappeared into the market but was arrested a short time later.
We've posted a full story on our Web site.
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April 7, 2009 9:47 AM
Sledgehammer-wielding burglar shot to death in Wenatchee
Posted by Nick Provenza
WENATCHEE -- Police say a man used a sledgehammer to break into a house, shot the owner and was then shot to death in Wenatchee early Monday.
Police Chief Tom Robbins says neighbors reported shouting and gunshots at 1:28 a.m. Officers found 43-year-old Scott Bates had shot the homeowner with a .45-caliber pistol, after which the 25-year-old homeowner fatally shot Bates in the chest with an SKS rifle.
Robbins says the homeowner was taken to Central Washington Hospital for treatment of a flesh wound in the upper leg. After that, the police chief says, the man will be booked into jail for investigation of misdemeanor drug offenses.
Robbins says the episode is believed to be drug-related, although the motive for the break-in remains under investigation.
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April 7, 2009 6:16 AM
Thieves make off with three cash registers in Port Angeles
Posted by John de Leon
"It's kind of a drag."
That's what Erich Seifert, co-owner of the Good to Go Natural Grocery in Port Angeles, told the Peninsula Daily News after someone broke into the store and took a cash register containing $150. It was one of three cash-register thefts in the area between Sunday and Monday morning.
Cash registers were also taken from two drive-up coffee stands on Highway 101 just east of Port Angeles and on Lincoln Street, in what police Sgt. Glenn Roggenbuck said are unusual incidents for the city.
Comments | Category: Burglary , Theft , Weird, wacky or interesting |Permalink | Digg | Newsvine
April 6, 2009 6:35 PM
Seattle man pleads guilty to growing pot in suburban homes
Posted by John de Leon
A 36-year-old Seattle man, who federal prosecutors say organized several marijuana grow houses in Snohomish County, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to manufacture marijuana. Jerry R. Berkey faces a prison sentence of between seven years and three months and nine years when he is sentenced on July 10 in U.S. District Court in Seattle.
According to a news release, over the past five years Berkey organized marijuana grow operations in suburban homes with several other people. He would pay for the rent, plants and would distribute the marijuana to buyers. The news release said Berkey grew more than 4,000 plants at five different homes in Lynnwood, Everett and Edmonds.
Prosecutors allege that each of the grow operations brought in about $3,000 every 30 days.
Berkey was arrested Oct. 10, and was indicted by a federal grand jury about two weeks later.
Police and prosecutors say residential homes, particularly in Seattle's suburbs, are increasingly being used to hide marijuana grow operations. Times staff reporter Jonathan Martin wrote about the trend in a July 2007 story.
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April 6, 2009 5:46 PM
Two people robbed at gunpoint at Dunlap bus stop
Posted by John de Leon
Seattle police are investigating an armed robbery that occurred at 11 last night in the 7800 block of Rainier Avenue South.
The two victims told police they were at a bus stop when they were approached by two men wearing bandannas around their faces. Both suspects displayed small, black handguns and took the victims' backpacks and cell phones.
The suspects left on foot and the victims called police after a 10- to 15-minute delay. A thorough area search for the suspects was conducted, but the suspects remain at large. Some of the victims' property was recovered by officers later in the 5100 block of South Kenyon Street.
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April 4, 2009 4:57 PM
TRAFFIC ALERT: East Main Street in Monroe reduced to one lane
Posted by John de Leon
East Main Street in Monroe, between Highway 2 and the railroad tracks, will be reduced to one lane in each direction from Monday through Thursday between the hours of 6:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.
The closure will allow road crews to replace a broken water main. Steel plates will be on the roadway.
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April 4, 2009 2:52 PM
KING5.com: Man's body found in Skyway carport
Posted by Nick Provenza
SKYWAY -- King County deputies are investigating a possible homicide in Skyway after a body was found in the carport of a rental house.
The man's body was found around 2 p.m. Friday
The King County Sheriff's Office says the man may have died from a gunshot wound.
There was a report of shots fired in that area a few days ago, but it is unknown at this point whether the two incidents are related.
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April 4, 2009 9:19 AM
Feds cracking down on laser incidents involving aircraft
Posted by John de Leon
Authorities are investigating several instances of lasers being pointed at the cockpits of aircraft approaching Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. The most recent report came March 25 when pilots on an Alaska Airlines flight from San Diego said a laser was flashed into the cockpit shortly before a safe landing at 8 p.m. In another case, Christopher Charles Saunders, 24, of Burien was arrested early last month by Port of Seattle police after a series of laser incidents near the aiport.
Saunders has since been released pending further investigation, but authorities say he remains a suspect.
Just how serious the matter is was underscored earlier this week when the U.S. Attorney's Office in California announced a federal grand jury had returned a two-count indictment charging Balltazar Valladares, 29, of Roseville, Calif., with interference with the safe operation of an aircraft by shining a handheld laser into the cockpit. According to prosecutors, Valladares twice pointed a laser at aircraft on March 26. The first was a jetliner that was on approach to the Sacramento airport with 137 passengers aboard. The second was a law enforcement helicopter sent to investigate the laser hit on the jetliner.
The helicopter was able to locate Valladares.
This is the second such case prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California in recent months. In October, a federal judge in Fresno sentenced Jared Dooley to two years in prison and Kendra Snow to 18 months in prison for pointing a laser at a sheriff's helicopter near Bakersfield.
The maximum penalty for a violation of interference with aircraft is 20 years in prison.
Continue reading this post ...
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April 3, 2009 11:12 AM
Bellevue Fire Chief retires
Posted by Nick Provenza
Bellevue's fire chief for the past four years, Mario Trevino has retired.
Trevino, who's been in fire service for 36 years, had been absent from the Bellevue department for six months to undergo cancer treatment.
The treatment went well, but Trevino has not made a full recovery to return to work, according to a department news release.
Trevino began his career with the Seattle Fire Department in 1973 and after 24 years rose to the rank of deputy fire chief. He then left Seattle and served as the chief of the Las Vegas Fire Department from 1996 to 2001. He then moved on to serve as the Chief of the San Francisco Fire department until 2004.
Deputy Chief Mike Eisner has been appointed to serve as interim chief. Eisner has served 35 years with the department, the past 17 years as deputy.
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April 3, 2009 9:13 AM
Money woes: No trials for six weeks in Thurston County Superior Court
Posted by Nick Provenza
OLYMPIA -- To save money Thurston County Superior Court will not hold criminal or civil trials for six weeks this year.
The first no-trial week in Olympia will be at the end of this month. The rest are spread throughout the year around holidays.
The Olympian reports the court will save about $10,000 by not selecting and seating juries.
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April 2, 2009 1:24 PM
KING5.com: Fire at North Seattle assisted living facility
Posted by Nick Provenza
An assisted living facility caught fire in north Seattle early this afternoon.
A Seattle fire spokesperson says flames were visible from the Meridian Manor at 10345 Meridian Avenue North.
The fire department said the fire was confined to one room on the ninth floor and there was no one in that room.
Video from SkyKING shows thick, white smoke coming from the windows. Firefighters appeared to carry one of the residents out on a chair. A number of residents could be seen being loaded into a Metro bus for shelter.
There is no immediate word on injuries or the cause of the fire.
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April 2, 2009 9:38 AM
KING5.com: Girl brought by father on robbery now in protective custody
Posted by Nick Provenza
The girl whose father brought her along in an Ellensburg AM/PM Mini Mart robbery Tuesday was taken into protective custody by California police Wednesday night in the small town of Fortuna, south of Eureka.
The suspect eluded police and remains at large.
The KING5.com story can be found here.
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April 2, 2009 8:54 AM
Search continues for missing Lake Stevens woman
Posted by Nick Provenza
The friends and family of a missing 62-year-old Lake Stevens woman continue their search today along Highway 2 all the way to Wenatchee.
Connie Koch disappeared last Thursday and the only clue is a text message that said "Look at Stevens Pass." She reportedly may have been headed for Leavenworth.
Koch is a former teacher who was preparing to fly to Dallas for treatment of hypersensitivity to chemical smells. She left her bags and medication at home.
The family is asking people to look for her white 2005 Toyota Corolla, Washington license 971VOL.
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April 2, 2009 8:02 AM
Shoplifting-assault in Olympia nets life sentence
Posted by Nick Provenza
OLYMPIA -- A transient who beat an Olympia grocery store owner who accused him of shoplifting a can of sardines is headed to prison for the rest of his life.
The 37-year-old, Jay Earl McKague, was convicted Wednesday in Olympia of assault and is scheduled to be sentenced today in Thurston County Superior Court.
It was his third strike. The Olympian reports he has previous convictions for assault and robbery.
The jury acquitted McKague of a robbery charge in the shoplifting. He's still facing another charge, accused of beating a fellow inmate in the Thurston County Jail.
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April 1, 2009 2:35 PM
Jury convicts killer in Foss High School murder case
Posted by Nick Provenza
A Pierce County jury convicted Douglas S. Chanthabouly today of second-degree murder in the shooting death of Samnang Kok in a hallway of Tacoma's Foss High School two years ago, The News Tribune in Tacoma reports this afternoon.
Jurors rejected the arguments of Chanthabouly's defense lawyers that their client, who has paranoid schizophrenia, was legally insane at the time of the shooting, according to the newspaper.
Chanthabouly did not react when the verdict was read. The jury deliberated for four days before reaching the decision.
Chanthabouly, 20, will be sentenced later this spring. He faced commitment to the state psychiatric hospital near Lakewood if acquitted by reason of insanity.
Kok, 17, died Jan. 3, 2007, after Chanthabouly shot him once in the face and twice more in the body in a hallway of the school.
Detectives never determined a motive for the shooting although prosecutors presented evidence during his two-week trial that Chanthabouly may have harbored animosity toward someone named "Sam."
That evidence came in the form of a class assignment in which Chanthabouly wrote about a "sludge face named Sam" who was "going to live in dirt forever."
Mental-health experts who examined Chanthabouly after his arrest agreed that he probably was suffering delusions the day of the shooting and thought Kok was the member of a street gang out to hurt him and his brother.
One of those experts, state psychologist Julie Gallagher, testified during trial that Chanthabouly still knew it was wrong to kill Kok. Defense attorneys had tried to convince the jury that their client did not know the difference between right and wrong at the time, which would have met the legal definition of insanity.
Prosecutors charged Chanthabouly with first- and second-degree murder, allowing jurors to decide whether Kok's slaying was premeditated.
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April 1, 2009 12:55 PM
Black Diamond teen injured in one-car crash, rollover
Posted by Nick Provenza
A Black Diamond teen was seriously injured in a one-car, rollover crash Tuesday evening, according to the King County Sheriff's Office.
The accident occurred in the 31000 block of the South East Black Diamond - Ravensdale Road. The teenager was driving west where the road curves to the left. His car drifted off the road onto the shoulder then down an embankment. The car hit a large tree then rolled on its top.
The teenager was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.
Excessive speed appears to be a factor in the crash, according to the sheriff's office.
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April 1, 2009 12:52 PM
King County sheriff starts cold case unit
Posted by Nick Provenza
A Justice Department grant is funding a cold case unit in the King County sheriff's office.
The grant will pay for two detectives and an analyst and expenses for 18 months.
They are reviewing 193 unsolved homicide and missing person cases dating back to 1942.
They'll tackle the cases most likely to be solved with DNA or other new forensic testing.
Until now unsolved homicides were handled by the sheriff's major crimes detectives.
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April 1, 2009 11:00 AM
Arson at Port Orchard golf course
Posted by Nick Provenza
PORT ORCHARD -- An arson at the McCormick Woods Golf Course near Port Orchard caused $400,000 damage to a storage building and destroyed eight golf-cart-style utility vehicles and a dozen lawn mowers.
Kitsap County Fire Marshal David Lynam told The Kitsap Sun accelerants were used to set the fire Sunday night outside the building.
No one injured. Sheriffs detectives are investigating.
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April 1, 2009 10:26 AM
Father, daughter accused of Ellensburg robbery
Posted by Nick Provenza
ELLENSBURG -- The Kittitas County sheriff's office has identified a suspect in an Ellensburg convenience store robbery and says he was with his 9-year-old daughter.
The sheriff's office says tips from store video led detectives today to name Robert Daniel Webb as the suspect. He was last seen Tuesday evening in Yakima. His daughter is with him. They are believed to be driving a 2008 silver Toyota Corolla, Washington license 602-XQG.
Store video shows a man pull a gun on the clerk early Tuesday at a convenience store as a girl in a pink coat watches.
They escaped with about $200, driving east on I-90.
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April 1, 2009 9:46 AM
More suspects, motive in Tonasket homicide
Posted by Nick Provenza
OKANOGAN -- Okanogan County sheriff's detectives have accused a Tonasket woman of having her husband's pregnant lover stabbed to death with an ice pick.
The sheriff's office says 33-year-old Lacy K. Hirst-Pavek was arrested Tuesday night and jailed for investigation of murder and manslaughter in the slaying of 25-year-old Michelle Kitterman. Her body was found March 1 in a Tonasket driveway.
The sheriff's office said today that Hirst-Pavek's husband was having an affair with Kitterman and Hirst-Pavek gave Tansy Fae Mathis $500 and the use of a rental car for the killing.
The 29-year-old Mathis and 38-year-old Brent L. Phillips were arrested last week.
Detectives are looking for a fourth suspect, 33-year-old David Eugene Richards of Spokane.
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April 1, 2009 9:37 AM
Man arrested in Seattle in stabbing death of girlfriend in California
Posted by Nick Provenza
A 55-year-old California man suspected of fatally stabbing his girlfriend last week was arrested Tuesday night at a Seattle homeless shelter.
Richmond police had been looking for Rachaele "Rick" William Pembrook and a felony warrant was issued for his arrest. Officers in the Bay Area city contacted Seattle police after determining that Pembrook may have come here, said Seattle police Sgt. Sean Whitcomb.
Pembrook is accused of killing his girlfriend, Donnell Dupree, possibly on the night of March 22, according to the Contra Costa Times newspaper. Dupree's 84-year-old mother -- who is deaf, blind and suffering from Alzheimer's disease -- crawled on the floor of her Richmond home, looking for food and water for at least a couple of days before other family members found her and Dupree's body, the newspaper reported.
Dupree's brothers, who hadn't heard from their sister since she hosted a family get-together at her home on March 22, went to check on her and found her body in a bedroom with the door shut. Their mother was badly dehydrated and couldn't offer any information to detectives, but her health has since stabilized, according to the news report.
Dupree's sister told a reporter that Dupree and Pembrook, who met in Oakland last year, had a troubled relationship.
"Last weekend, he asker her to marry him, but he didn't have a ring," the paper quoted the sister, Desiree Dupree, as saying. When the victim made a comment about that, "he started moving his clothes out to his car."
Seattle officers tracked Pembrook to a homeless shelter for men in the 1500 block of Alaskan Way, Whitcomb said.
"He was very cooperative" and was taken into custody without incident, Whitcomb said.
Officers also impounded Pembrook's car.
Pembrook was booked into the King County Jail just before 11 p.m. Tuesday and is being held without bail. It is not known how soon he could be extradited to California to face the homicide charge.
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