Forum: Recent policing reforms have made Washington less safe

Clamping down on police pursuits and looking the other way on drug use is contributing to a rise in crime.

By Brian Redford / Herald Forum

Compliments for a well composed editorial of the new law regarding law enforcement vehicle pursuits (“Slow roll on changes to state’s police pursuit law,” The Herald, Jan. 21). It offers the reader the consideration of dual views into this concerning issue. But it sanctions unlawful actions.

The increase in crime is statistically validated causing elevated concern across the opinion spectrum. A question that needs to be a component of this conversation is: “What are the contributing factor or factors?” The answer to this is probably lengthy when all things are considered and undoubtedly creates more questions.

We should presume that there are multiple contributors to the increasing disregard for the law and unacceptable behavior. Both of which are subject to decreasing consequences affording the criminally inclined more bandwidth to continue their dysfunctional behavior. Essentially making the low-level misconduct “gateway crimes.” These lenient laws are an unintended endorsement of crime by our lawmakers. Which is something to be considered when reviewing their viability and competencies as representatives in Olympia.

This current pursuit law has a sibling recognized as the drug misdemeanor law and the Blake decision. Drug possession for personal use was once a felony but now a misdemeanor, subject to referral or diversion to drug treatment. There is no incarceration unless there are extenuating circumstances. The increase in drug-related deaths makes it obvious what the immediate result of the Blake decision is. Proving this methodology just doesn’t work. And the same is true for this new pursuit law with the spike in people who refuse to be stopped by law enforcement when operating a vehicle.

The new trend of leniency by our lawmakers is dangerous. At risk is the safety and ability of law enforcement and the health and safety of all Washington residents. It disregards the safety of everyone these laws are in place to protect. Eventually placing the sometimes irreparable consequences on us. The considerations our representatives afforded their constituency is deficient. This benefits those who make reckless choices. Unfortunately, the results and responsibility politicians deny ownership of is deferred to our law enforcement who are making every effort to enforce the law and protect us regardless of these newly misguided constraints.

It is not beneficial to the law-abiding population to experiment with our laws with reduced response and consequences. It essentially patronizes the perpetrators and encourages them down the same path. Penalties can help them make better choices to change the direction of their life. There is a large number of people who have done this successfully.

Providing a continuance of this law enables the criminals to be a threat to the safety of our citizens and their children. Lifting the gate allowing dismissal of certain crimes is unconscionable, gives permission to violators and endorses their conduct. Every day there are increasing examples that disabling and defunding the police is not the correct answer.

We need to find out what works for the best interest of all and discourages criminal behavior. We will probably discover that the answer is very similar to the previous laws.Continuing down the path paved with poorly evaluated decisions is a recipe for disaster.

Brian Redford lives in Arlington.

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Opinion

toon
Editorial cartoons for Wednesday, May 21

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

A visitor takes in the view of Twin Lakes from a second floor unit at Housing Hope’s Twin Lakes Landing II Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023, in Marysville, Washington. (Ryan Berry / The Herald)
Editorial: Housing Hope’s ‘Stone Soup’ recipe for community

With homelessness growing among seniors, an advocate calls for support of the nonprofit’s projects.

Burke: Don’t let Trump & Co. get away with ‘no comment’ on outrages

For the tiring list of firings, cuts, busted norms and unconstitutional acts, hold them accountable.

Opposition to amendment to habitat rules ignored

The article regarding Snohomish County’s habitat ordiance reports a preponderance of Snohomish… Continue reading

DIYers should get a PUD’s heat-pump break, too

I have just completed a do-it-yourself installation of a central heat pump… Continue reading

Everett Council, Dist. 2: Paula Rhyne has proved herself

Four years ago, a public servant ran for District 2 and won… Continue reading

Comment: Era of Buffett-, Gates-style philanthropy is ending

The tech billionaires see their space and AI quests as better than a bequest to fight poverty and disease.

Wildfire smoke builds over Darrington on Friday, Sept. 11, 2020 in Darrington, Wa. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Editorial: Loss of research funds threat to climate resilience

The Trump administration’s end of a grant for climate research threatens solutions communities need.

Sarah Weiser / The Herald
Air Force One touches ground Friday morning at Boeing in Everett.
PHOTO SHOT 02172012
Editorial: There’s no free lunch and no free Air Force One

Qatar’s offer of a 747 to President Trump solves nothing and leaves the nation beholden.

The Washington State Legislature convenes for a joint session for a swearing-in ceremony of statewide elected officials and Governor Bob Ferguson’s inaugural address, March 15, 2025.
Editorial: 4 bills that need a second look by state lawmakers

Even good ideas, such as these four bills, can fail to gain traction in the state Legislature.

toon
Editorial cartoons for Tuesday, May 20

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

Douthat: What guides Trump policy is a doctorine of the deal

Hawk or dove, former friend or foe; what matters most is driving a bargain, for good or ill.

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.