CRIME PREVENTION TIPS FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON

During the holiday season, there tends to be an upswing in crime rates for certain types of crimes. Some of the top crimes committed over the holidays include shoplifting, robbery, identity theft, DUI, and assault. By remaining aware of holiday season risks you can better protect yourself and decrease your chances of becoming a victim. …

EMOTIONS RUN HIGH DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON — BE AWARE AND BE SAFE!

The holiday season is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but for many it is just stressful and overwhelming. There can be unrealistic expectations for joy and gift giving, financial pressures and strain, and tense family dynamics. Tempers flare and emotions run high during the holiday season. With heightened stress levels …

REMINDER FOR YOUR MORNING COMMUTE: NEW DISTRACTED-DRIVING LAW IN WA STATE IS IN EFFECT (DUI-E)!

Washington State has a new anti-distraction law, effective NOW. Be sure you understand the law so you can avoid a citation. The Seattle Times and Komo News provide useful, detailed accounts of what is banned and what is legal. Here are some of the bullets: Driving under the Influence of Electronics (DUI-E) is a primary offense. A police officer …

ANOTHER PROSTITUTION STING IN SEATTLE RESULTED IN NUMEROUS ARRESTS – WE CAN HELP

We recently ran a post related to Sexual Exploitation and Patronizing charges, detailing the law and consequences, and describing how we can help. We referenced a sting operation in a Seattle massage parlor in 2016 where at least 204 men were arrested. There has been another string of arrests related to a prostitution sting in Seattle. The Seattle …

ARE YOU FACING SEXUAL EXPLOITATION/ PATRONIZING CHARGES?

Last year, the Seattle Police Department’s Vice & High Risk Victims Unit set up a successful sting operation in a Seattle massage parlor. At least 204 men, from all walks of life, were arrested for seeking paid sexual services. Please reference the Seattle Times article from 2016 for more detailed information. This sting operation was reported to be the …

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT DRIVING AFTER A DUI ARREST

If you experience the often traumatizing and upsetting event of being charged with a DUI in Washington State, your focus will likely turn to concern about criminal penalties. You will find yourself thinking about jail time, fines, and other potential consequences. Most people do not realize that there are actually two parts to your DUI …

PUBLIC DEFENDER VS. PRIVATE ATTORNEY: WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES?

When you are facing criminal charges, determining your legal representation becomes an essential next step. How do you determine whether you should hire a private attorney or use a public defender, if this option is available to you? You have the right to speak with an attorney before talking to the police and you have …

HOW TO HAVE A SAFE & DUI-FREE MEMORIAL DAY

Today we honor and give thanks to those who have served our country and who have died doing so. With gratitude, we remember all who have served. Memorial Day weekend also symbolically kicks off summer festivities. You may be returning home from your celebration today or setting out for a day in the sun. Either …

PATROLS WILL BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR INTOXICATED BOATERS STARTING THIS WEEKEND! BE AWARE OF BUI LAW & PENALTIES

It’s that time of year again! The weather is heating up and Washingtonians are ready to get out on the water. This week, the Seattle Times reminds us that police patrols are ready to be on the look-out for intoxicated boaters. The article describes an increased, targeted effort by law enforcement agencies to crack down on boaters under the …

QUESTIONING MARIJUANA LAWS

How legitimate are the legal limits for marijuana when it comes to determining driving impairment?  Not very – according to a recent study. The Seattle Times published an article this week discussing a study conducted by AAA. The study reports that marijuana DUI convictions are based on arbitrary state standards that are not actually connected to …

WHERE ARE SEATTLE’S TRAFFIC-STOP HOT SPOTS?

Like most major cities, Seattle has certain areas that see the most traffic tickets. Seattle PI does us all a favor by highlighting these police “beats” where the most traffic stops appear to occur. Statistics in this article are pulled from Seattle Police Department reports and include traffic violations only. Some of the areas where SPD …

DID YOU GET CAUGHT UP IN THE MAY DAY PROTESTS?

Once again, the Northwest reels in the aftermath of May Day, with a peaceful day of protest erupting in chaos and violence. What is May Day? May Day (May 1st) was originally an ancient pagan holiday, a celebration of Spring and the transition to Summer in the Northern Hemisphere. Different cultural groups have designed May …