Sunday, June 30, 2024
BREWSTER—Police Chief Marcos Ruiz reported to the June 20 meeting of the city council that he recently met with 7th District State Senator Shelly Short and 32nd District Democratic Representative Lauren Davis about stalking issues.
“Rep. Davis is the author of House Bill 1696, which updates the stalking laws in the state of Washington,” said Ruiz and added that both legislators are interested in addressing gaps that remain in the bill’s rules, areas.
Ruiz explained that for decades, he has advised stalking victims to go to court and get an order.
“For so long, they would not do that,” said Ruiz. “Now they are.”
The difficulty arises when deputies try to enforce the order.
“The judge fills out an order. They call the police. Police cannot make the arrest because the orders are so convoluted the judges are writing,” said Ruiz. “The officers are calling me in the middle of the night, upset because they cannot make the arrest. The next day the victims are in my office, upset because the officer could not do anything.”
Ruiz said he then must review the order - often with available body cam footage - to show the victim why the arrest was not made.
Sen. Short wants to meet again with Ruiz to discuss ways to clarify that process.
New Radar
In other business, the city approved a $5,280 update for the department’s five antiquated traffic radar guns. The department must have a specialized contractor recalibrate its radar equipment for recertification.
“Our radars are decades old,” said Ruiz. “Four out of the five could not be recertified because of their age and the inability to find parts.”
Mike Maltais: 360-333-8483 or michael@ward.media
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