Mason, Kitsap, and Thurston County sheriffs voice support for Reps. Griffey and Couture’s vote on police pursuit bill
CONTACT: Hanna Scott, Public Information Officer for Reps. Travis Couture and Dan Griffey | 360-968-3938
Mason, Kitsap, and Thurston County sheriffs voice support for Reps. Griffey and Couture’s vote on police pursuit bill
Today, the Mason, Kitsap, and Thurston County sheriffs voiced their support for Representatives Dan Griffey and Travis Couture’s no vote last week on a measure to partially restore the ability of law enforcement officers to engage in vehicle pursuits in limited circumstances.
Senate Bill 5352, which passed the House 57-40 on April 10, would allow police pursuits of those suspected of committing a violent crime, a sex offense, domestic violence-related offenses, vehicle assault, driving under the influence, and trying to escape arrest.
The 35th District lawmakers voted against the measure because they say it does not go nearly far enough and all three sheriffs – a Republican, Democrat, and Independent – stand with them:
Sheriff Ryan Spurling, R-Mason County: “While I understand both sides of the vote taken on Senate Bill 5352 in the House last week, I respect the decision made by Representatives Dan Griffey and Travis Couture to oppose the measure. The simple fact is this bill, as written, would still prevent law enforcement from pursuing criminals except in the most extreme cases. Before the vote, Travis and Dan called me to ask for my opinion on the bill. I was very appreciative of their desire to hear from those of us who are dealing directly with this problem every day in our communities. They have my full support.”
Sheriff Derek Sanders, I-Thurston County: “Over the last year, mayors, council members, police chiefs, sheriffs, and citizens have demanded the Legislature balance our extreme pursuit law. While something is better than nothing, the 2023 session fell short on delivering such balance. Washington isn’t missing the actual act of pursuits: it’s missing the ability for law enforcement to pursue. Blanket restrictions have, and will now continue, to encourage criminals to drive recklessly to avoid accountability. It will be another long year for victims of property crime and domestic violence stalking/no contact order violations, but I know law enforcement across the state will continue to do their best under prescribed law. I am hopeful that the 2024 session will continue to work on this important issue.”
Sheriff John Gese, D-Kitsap County: “What had been a promising, bipartisan bill with support of law enforcement, and many elected officials and organizations, is now watered down to a version that may make very limited improvements. I appreciate those legislators who worked to make balanced changes to this law and provide law enforcement with the needed tools and discretion to perform the work their communities expect of them. Some have held firm in their convictions, while some have tried to compromise to get at least some improvements made. Unfortunately, while the current proposed legislation adds very limited improvements, it leaves out the need to create a deterrent effect to crimes such as reckless and aggressive driving, auto theft, burglary, and many other felonies. It doesn’t make sense allow the police to pursue someone who may have had three to four drinks, but not a burglar who broke into a home while someone was inside. I would hate to see the communities I serve, and the dedicated men and women who work in local law enforcement, wait until next year for the needed improvements when this is such an important and critical issue to address.”
