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The Des Moines Police Department is conducting a homicide investigation of a deceased woman found in a triplex apartment in the 24000 block of 25th Ave South early Tuesday morning (Aug. 31).

Police say that the landlord of the complex, who lives in an adjacent unit, called 911 just after midnight, after hearing “thumping” sounds a short time earlier. The landlord also stated the dogs inside the unit were barking excessively, which was unusual.

Arriving patrol officers found the apartment locked, interior lights on, and the front window coverings closed. Officers received no response at the door. Utilizing a chair from the landlord, officers were able to peer into the apartment through a small window at the top of the front door. Officers saw the victim on the floor just inside the entry way and proceeded to enter. The victim was deceased and it was evident she had died from homicidal violence.

The victim is a white female, approximately 29-years old, and she is believed to be the tenant of the apartment. The Washington State Crime Lab, King County AFIS, and the King County Medical Examiner’s Office are assisting Des Moines Police Department detectives with the investigation of the crime scene.

The King County Medical Examiner’s Office has taken jurisdiction of the victim and will release her name once identification has been verified and family members have received notification.

The case is currently under investigation.

Here’s a map of the location:

View Larger Map

One of Washington State Patrol’s “Most Wanted” in King County was captured Thursday, Aug. 26th in Des Moines.

According to police, Kenneth W. Williams Jr., 28, was arrested after detectives received a tip that he was residing in Des Moines. Williams is a suspect in a vehicular assault that occurred on August 13, 2009 when he left his seriously injured passenger on the side of the road after falling off of the rear of Williams’ motorcycle. Williams had been driving erratically and popping wheelies just before his passenger was ejected.

Williams was booked into the King County Jail on a $30,000 warrant.

It almost sounds like a “Saturday Night Live” sketch – cast the legendary, self-aware King of kitschy over-acting William Shatner as Host. Add as Guests convicted child rapist Mary Kay Letourneau and her one-time victim-turned-husband Vili Fualaau, who both live in Des Moines.

Stir.

Oh, and be sure to hit the Record button, ‘cuz this could be interesting, to say the least.

The result? An interview on a new show on the Biography channel called “Aftermath” that borders on surrealism.

To wit – at one point, Letourneau reveals to Shatner that she had no idea that having a “relationship” with an underage boy was illegal, let alone a felony.

There’s another priceless (ok, it’s kinda gross) moment where Letourneau talks about their “first kiss” (at the time she was in her 30s, and he was what? A 12-year old 6th grader?): – listen to her soundbites here:

Letourneau did her time of course, spending seven years in prison for child rape. She and Fualaau married in 2005, and they currently live in Des Moines with their two children.

Oh, and they can sometimes be seen hanging out at the All Star Sports Bar, where Vili often guests as a DJ.

Here’s the episode in its entirety (don’t say we didn’t warn you…):

While sitting at our booth at the Des Moines Farmers Market, we received the following text at 10:40am from our own Theresa Frasch:

“Robbery just happened at B of A des moines”

Since this branch is less than a block from us, we left our booth, rushed up and took a few pics and did some investigation.

Two D.M.P.D. cruisers were on site, as were Tukwila Police and a K-9 unit from the Auburn Police.

Here’s what Reporter Ralph Nichols gleaned from D.M.P.D. Master Sgt. Bob Collins:

• The robbery happened around 10:15am on Saturday morning, Aug. 14
• Robbery suspect is a white male, in his 30s, around 6’2″ with a thin build, dark mustache and goatee
• Suspect is wearing blue jeans, a tan baseball cap, and white t-shirt with a large circular emblem on it
• Suspect handed a note to a Teller demanding cash
• There is no indication that he was armed
• Suspect left on foot westbound, into the marina area
• Auburn K-9 unit “lost scent” of the suspect in the marina area; this means the suspect is still at large
• D.M.P.D. is now working with the F.B.I. on the investigation

Here are some pics shot on scene by Scott Schaefer:

On Tuesday afternoon (Aug. 10th), a man carjacked a vehicle from a student in the east parking of Highline Community College using a sword and toy gun.

According to police, the man, who had just committed an armed robbery nearby, demanded that the student drive him away from the campus. When the student refused, the man opened the car door and lunged at the student with a short sword. The student exited his vehicle unharmed and the man drove the car away.

The Des Moines and Kent police departments responded and reports are that an arrest was made at an off-campus location.

If you have any information about this incident, please contact the Highline College Campus Safety Office in Building 6 or call 206-878-3710 ext. 3218. You may also contact the Des Moines Police Department at (206) 878-3301.

In the meantime, here are some Safety Tips provided by Highline College:

1. Call the Campus Safety Office or call 911 if you see people behaving suspiciously such as loitering in the parking lots or near isolated locations such as secluded walkways, doorways, or other areas where visibility is limited. The Campus Safety Office is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
2. Generally, it is advisable to surrender property to an assailant rather than resist. You should then call 911 to report the incident.
3. We recommend that you consult the personal safety tips that can be found at the Campus Safety website: http://www.highline.edu/admin/safety/personalsafety.htm

Des Moines police officers have arrested a 40-year-old man identified as the person allegedly responsible for a crime spree that targeted local residential retirement/health centers.

Master Sgt. Bob Collins said the suspect, who “has a history of numerous felony arrests,” was arrested on July 23 and booked into the King County Regional Justice Center for burglary.

“The suspect’s method of operation would be to enter the facilities during the day time and wander in and out of offices with the intent to steal purses,” Collins said, describing the crimes. “If questioned, the suspect would claim to be looking for a job and ask for an application.

“The suspect is also believed to have taken a purse from a regular attendee of the Des Moines Senior Center,” Collins continued. “In that instance the suspect claimed to be at the center waiting for his father. He was roaming around and had been asked to take a seat after he was seen going into offices.”

Here is Collins’ chronology of the crime spree:

• The first reported incidents related to these crimes occurred on May 17 and May 24. The suspect was seen loitering inside a residential health care facility located in the 2800 block of S. 224th Ave. on the two separate dates. The suspect was wearing nurse scrubs on one of the days and claimed to be looking for a job when questioned by staff. A staff member later could not find her purse and subsequently learned that several hundreds of dollars had been taken from her debit card account. The Des Moines Police Department obtained a digital photo of a suspect who had conducted the debit card transaction. That photograph was distributed to local residential health centers in a police department bulletin.
• July 2 – Des Moines Police Department received the report of the theft of a purse from the Des Moines Senior Center that had occurred on July 1. The victim of the theft resides in a retirement community located in the 800 block of S. 216 St. On July 12, this victim’s car was stolen in the middle of the day from where she lives. Later in the day security video of the suspect was provided to the police department.
• July 20 – The suspect allegedly returned to the residential health care facility located in the 2800 block of S. 224th St., again asking for an application. A short time later one of the staff members recognized him as matching the description of the suspect in the police department bulletin. Later that day two employees discovered their purses had been stolen from an office.
• July 22 – A car belonging to one of these purse victims was stolen from the facility parking lot. Another employee, not knowing a car theft was taking place, witnessed the car being taken by a man who matched the description of the suspect in the prior incidents.
• July 22, incident two – That morning, a person matching the description of the suspect entered a residential retirement center located in the 800 block of S. 216 St. The subject was seen by other employees walking the hallways. He had also requested a job application. That afternoon, one of the employees discovered her purse was missing and called the police. The responding officer checked security footage and recognized the suspect as matching the description of the suspect in security footage obtained on July 12.
• July 23 – At about 2:20 p.m., patrol officers located a subject matching the suspect description walking along S. 216th St. The subject was wearing clothing and carrying a backpack consistent with security photographs from the previously reported crimes. Officers arrested the suspect after he allegedly was found to be in possession of the car keys belonging to the victim of the purse theft reported the previous day.

Collins added in a July 30 news release that detectives anticipate filing several additional charges against the suspect in connection with the five cases apparently cleared by this arrest.

Tuesday, Aug. 3rd will be “National Night Out” in Des Moines, an event dedicated to encouraging neighbors, police and others to improve the quality of life in our community.

“National Night Out” is an opportunity for all parts of the Des Moines Community to come together and focus on build strong and healthy communities.

Key messages of “National Night Out” include:

• Cohesive, healthy neighborhoods are key to preventing crime and violence.
• Active block watch groups build community, increase hope and create harmony.
• Positive activities displace negative activity.
• Combating crime is a partnership of citizens and police.

If your neighborhood would be interested in participating in this year’s event, please contact CSO Tonya Seaberry at (206)870-7619 or tseaberry@desmoineswa.gov.

The King County Sheriff’s Department reports that they found Carl Wallace, age 58 and suffering from dementia, Friday night (July 16) in Grants Pass, Oregon.

Wallace was found safe, with his vehicle and dog “Frankie.”

He was first reported missing from the Burien area on Friday July 16th:

PREVIOUSLY:

On Friday (July 16) the King County Sheriff’s Department sent out word that they’re seeking the public’s help in finding 58-year old Carl Wallace, last seen in Burien.

According to police, he was last seen Thursday (July 15th) in the Burien area, and might be intending to drive to California.

Wallace suffers from Alzheimer’s Disease, and is in the area from Idaho for medical treatment.

The missing man has little gas, no credit or debit cards, little money, and did not know how to get to the freeway from Burien.

He is likely driving a black, 1990 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck, Idaho license 1AEB756.

His dog “Frankie” is with him, a brown and white border collie, weighing about 40 lbs.

Wallace is 5’ 7” tall, 180 lbs., and gray hair, blue eyes, and a full beard.

He has a tattoo on his left forearm of purple roses with “Carl + Betty.” He is wearing a gray shirt, tan shorts, tan boat shoes, and might have a purple sweater.

If anyone sees Carl Wallace they should call 9-1-1 or the Sheriff’s Office at (206) 296-3311 (24 hours).

Normandy Park’s Police Department is reporting about a recent credit card scam, where fake cards are being sent out to residents in the mail, marked from “USAA Federal Savings Bank” and promising a $25 credit through PayPal.

Here’s the notice sent out by the police Thursday, July 15:

Normandy Park Police Department recently received information on a new credit card scam. Names and addresses are being used to issue fake credit cards believed to be designed to defraud Pay Pal, a company specializing in internet money flow. Cards are issued with the correct name and address of the card holder though social security numbers do not match the name on the card being issued.

Several Normandy Park residents have reported receiving in the mail Visa or Mastercard Credit Cards from USAA Federal Savings Bank. The card comes with a very real looking account statement showing an internet deposit of $25 to the card. Sounds like a good deal, but the $25 is debited from the card prior to the card actually reaching your mail box.

The residents involved have not lost any money but their names will appear on a paper trail when Pay Pal finds their loss.

Protect yourself. If you receive one or more of these cards please call Detective Dan Will at Normandy Park Police Department 206-248-7600. Cancel the card immediately by calling USAA at 800-531-2265.

USAA Federal Savings Bank, a legitimate Financial Institution, is aware of the fake cards. They are currently working with the FBI to resolve the problem.

This is not just a Normandy Park problem. Salem Police have also contacted USAA with the same issue.

Twenty-three area police departments in King County (including Des Moines) will “inundate” area roads, highways, and interstates with extra police patrols targeting speeding drivers beginning this Friday (July 16) and continuing through Aug. 1 as part of the statewide “Slow down or pay up” campaign.

The campaign’s goal is to eliminate deaths and serious injuries from traffic crashes in Washington by the year 2030.

“Speeding may seem like a quick and effective shortcut, but in fact it is a leading cause of traffic deaths and injuries in King County and Washington State,” said Dr. David Fleming, Director and Health Officer for Public Health – Seattle & King County. “Speed-related crashes harm individuals, families, and communities, and many people hurt in these crashes suffer life altering trauma and never recover fully.”

The emphasis patrols over the next month are a key component of the Strategic Highway Safety Plan: Target Zero. The vision of Target Zero is zero deaths and serious injuries from traffic crashes in Washington by the year 2030. The Washington Traffic Safety Commission funds the extra patrols.

According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, from 2006 – 2008, speeding drivers killed 140 people in King County crashes, an average of four deaths a month. These speeding-involved crashes accounted for 44% of traffic deaths in King County for that period.

The following police agencies in King County will conduct “Slow down or pay up” patrols:

1. Auburn
2. Bellevue
3. Black Diamond
4. Burien
5. Des Moines
6. Federal Way
7. Issaquah
8. Kent
9. Kirkland
10. Maple Valley
11. Mercer Island
12. Newcastle
13. Normandy Park
14. North Bend
15. Pacific
16. Redmond
17. Renton
18. Sammamish
19. SeaTac
20. Seattle
21. Snoqualmie
22. Tukwila
23. Washington State Patrol District 2

“Enforcing traffic laws saves lives,” said Lieutenant Nick Almquist, Redmond Police Department, Traffic Unit. “From north to south and east to west, police departments are working together to enforce speed limits and make King County roads safer.”

“Driving is a complex skill, demanding your complete attention,” said Cesi Velez, South King County Target Zero Manager, Kent Police Department. “Slow down and watch for sudden stops when traffic is heavy or the road has limited sight distance. Avoid tailgating by leaving a car’s length between you and the car in front of you for every 10mph you’re traveling. Road conditions and weather may also require a driver to slow down.”

Public Health- Seattle & King County chairs and staffs the King County Target Zero Task Force (previously known as the King County Traffic Safety Coalition). Members include representatives from a variety of King County law enforcement agencies, the Washington State Liquor Control Board, alcohol and drug prevention organizations, traffic engineers, non-profit organizations, and others. The Washington State Traffic Safety Commission provides funding for the coalition and other King County traffic safety activities.

According to the King County Sheriff’s Department, a 64-year old SeaTac man was critically injured when homemade fireworks exploded Sunday night (July 4), sending him to Harborview Medical Center.

Police say that a 52 year-old resident of a house in the 2800 block of South 138th Street built a homemade “aerial device” by tying together a bundle of sparklers. He placed the sparklers in a tube, and then into a concrete cinder block to brace it. When the man lit off the “rocket’, it exploded in place, sending pieces of the concrete block in all directions.

The 64-year old victim was standing about 15 to 20 feet away when the device detonated. He was hit in the head by part of the cinder block, causing a serious head injury, which, according to the fire department, was life-threatening.

Other pieces of the block struck a nearby car, denting the door and breaking the window. The house and the garage door were also hit.

Both men live at the residence, as does the victim’s adult daughter. No one else was injured.

The Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit and Bomb Disposal Unit are investigating.

No arrests have yet been made and the investigation is continuing.

Here’s this week’s Des Moines Police Department’s Police Blotter, with local crime news fed to us directly from our good friends at the DMPD.

This week’s news include word that Des Moines’ finest were out “citing” children for wearing helmets while riding their bikes, and two juveniles arrested while fleeing from a residential burglary.

DES MOINES POLICE BLOTTER NEWS (June 4, 2010)

Des Moines Officers “Citing” Kids for Wearing Helmets While Riding Their Bikes:

Beginning this month Officers of the Des Moines Police Department are teaming up with SAFE KIDS to recognize kids who are playing it safe. Officers are issuing a “Safe Rider Citation” to commend kids for practicing “Safe Rider Habits” by wearing helmets. The “citation” entitles the recipient to one McDonald’s Vanilla Reduced Fat Cone.”

2 Juveniles Arrested While Fleeing From Residential Burglary Attempt:

Alert citizens called “911” on June 15th at 1130 a.m. after witnessing two subjects attempting to break out a neighbor’s sliding glass door. The suspects had fled on foot upon the initial responding officer’s arrival. Additional arriving officers located and detained the two suspects about two blocks away. The witnesses were brought to the scene and positively identified both suspects. The suspects are 16 years of age and live in Des Moines. They were transported to the Des Moines Police station, photographed and fingerprinted. King County Juvenile Detention declined to accept the juveniles. The juveniles were released to their parents. Charging documents for “Attempted Residential Burglary” have been forwarded to the King County Juvenile Prosecutor’s Office. The incident occurred near the 1600 block of S. 244th Place.

The Des Moines Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying a theft suspect, who was observed between May 17 and 24th and confronted by staff at a nursing care facility in Des Moines.

According to police, the suspect was loitering inside the building on two separate incidents. During one of the incidents he seen wearing nursing scrubs and told a staff member he was looking for a job. The police were not called during either event.

On May 24th, one of the staff nurses discovered her purse was taken and learned shortly afterward that a charge in excess of $800.00 in debit card transactions had taken place against her account. One of those transactions took place at the Redondo Safeway and was captured by surveillance video (see photos below).

Anyone with information as to the identity of the suspect (pictured below) is asked to contact Detective Ross Stuth at rstuth@desmoineswa.gov or 206-870-7615.

The King County Sheriff’s Department says that a 23 year-old Des Moines man was killed this morning when his car left the roadway and struck a tree in White Center early Thursday morning (June 10).

He died shortly after he was taken to Harborview Medical Center.

The incident happened about 1:15am, and witnesses reported seeing the man leave the Mt. View Elementary School parking lot at a high rate of speed. The school is located in White Center at SW 108th and 12th Ave SW.

When the vehicle got to the 800 block of SW 108th it crossed over into the westbound lane, where it struck a raised curb and a large tree. The collision caused massive damage to the left front of the car, a 1995 Ford Explorer.

No other vehicles were involved in the collision, and the man’s identity has not yet been released.

Detectives believe alcohol was a contributing factor.

Here’s this week’s Des Moines Police Department’s Police Blotter, with local crime news fed to us directly from our good friends at the DMPD.

This week’s news include the arrest of a 56-year old Walgreens robber, photos of the Special Olympics torch being carried through Des Moines, and information on the city’s animal care and control.

DES MOINES POLICE BLOTTER NEWS (June 4, 2010)

Des Moines PD Arrests Walgreens Robber: On 06/02/10 at approximately 1815 hours a 56 year old man entered the Des Moines Walgreens and demanded prescription medications. The man displayed a handgun during the robbery. Responding Des Moines Officers found the suspect attempting to hide among several large trees west of the store. The weapon was determined to be a pellet gun with an orange tip that had been blackened. The suspect later admitted to detectives he was responsible for robbing the same Walgreen’s in April. The man shows a last known address out of Des Moines. He was booked into the King County Detention Center for Robbery 1 and investigators are forwarding filing documents to the King County Prosecutor’s Office for both robberies.

Special Olympics Torch Carried Through Des Moines: Members of the Des Moines Municipal Court and the Des Moines Police Department participated in this years “Special Olympics” torch run. The torch was delivered to Des Moines PD by members of the Port of Seattle Police Department. The torch was carried through the city along Pacific Highway South and handed off to members of the Kent Police Department. The run helps to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics Washington.

Here are some photos of the event:

Look What’s New in Animal Care and Control for Des Moines Residents:
Beginning July 1st, the city of Des Moines will no longer be contracting with King County Animal Control for any animal sheltering.

Des Moines Police Department has its own Animal Control Officer and has for many years, so those services will remain the same- we will continue to provide service for vicious/dangerous dog problems, dog bite reports, animal cruelty investigations, dog and cat licensing, nuisance animal complaints, lost and found pet reports, enforcement of animal control laws, rescue of sick/injured domestic animals, animal care and control education, and referral to other animal service agencies.

Since the first part of 2010, the city of Des Moines has entered into contracts with local vendors, which include a boarding kennel and four veterinary hospitals, for animal care and shelter services; pets impounded from Des Moines are now being cared for at one of those vendors’ facilities instead of the King County Animal Control shelter.

What to do if you have lost a pet, found a pet, need to place your pet in a new home, or have an animal emergency:

Citizens who find a pet in the city limits of Des Moines should contact the Animal Control Division of the Police Department (206) 870-6549 or (206) 878-3301 regarding care and possible impoundment of the animal.

Citizens who have lost a pet should check all area shelters and police departments, as pets can roam and cross into other jurisdictions.

Citizens thinking of placing their own pet in a new home may call the Animal Control Officer for resources and assistance to help keep their pet; however, if there is no other option, they should contact area rescue groups, area shelters, and Petfinder.com for possible placement assistance.

And as always, if a public safety emergency is occurring such as an in-progress vicious dog attack , citizens should call 911.

Adoptions of friendly, healthy pets will also be offered on occasion through the Animal Control Division of the Police Department; thankfully most nice impounded pets are claimed by their owners, but on occasion there may be a pet available for adoption at one of the local vendors.  Des Moines pet adoptions will also be occasionally offered through area rescue groups, local media, Petsmart stores, and Petfinder.com.

For additional questions regarding the changes in animal sheltering, please contact Master Animal Control Officer Jan Magnuson at JMagnuson@desmoineswa.gov or (206) 870-6549.

Here’s this week’s Des Moines Police Department’s Police Blotter, with local crime news fed to us directly from our good friends at the DMPD.

This week’s crimes include “Robbery 1″ arrests, stolen bike recovered, and free anti-theft “Club” devices being given out to eligible Honda owners:

DES MOINES POLICE BLOTTER NEWS (May 21, 2010)

4 Suspects Charged with Robbery 1 and Bike Recovered: Arrests Made and Bike Recovered – The investigation of the robbery of the and assault of an 18 year old resident has led to “Robbery 1” charges being filed against each of the 4 suspects involved.  Detectives also recovered the victim’s bike that had been taken during the robbery.  Two of the suspects are 18 years old, one suspect is 16 and one is 15.   3 of the suspects are in custody and an arrest warrant has been issued for the suspect who is still at large.   The juvenile suspects in this case may possibly be charged as adults.

The Des Moines Police Department is Giving Away Vehicle “Anti Theft” Device to Eligible Honda Owners: In 2007, the Washington State Legislator created the Washington Auto Theft Prevention Authority (WATPA) aiming to reduce vehicle thefts across the state.  The Des Moines Police Department, in partnership with the “Preventing Auto Theft Through Regional Operational Links” (PATROL) Task Force, has continued to see South King County and North Pierce County being plagued with the theft of older Honda Accords and Civics.

The Des Moines Police Department, as part of a WATPA state grant program, will offer “The Club” steering wheel locking devices for FREE to 1991-1998 Honda Accord and Honda Civic owners.  Utilization of “The Club” is a crime deterrent.  Though its use does not guarantee or ensure your vehicle will not be stolen, it creates an additional level of theft prevention.

Quantities are limited!  To obtain “The Club” you must come to the Des Moines Police Station Monday-Friday between the hours of 9am – 1pm with your current Department of Licensing vehicle registration.

For more information please contact CSO Tonya Seaberry at (206) 870-7619.

Recently, numerous Des Moines Police Officers were invited to celebrate “Hero Day” at Parkside Elementary in Des Moines, where they joined students, teachers, parents and grandparents for lunch and recess activities.

Parkside Elementary School Principal Robin Lamoureux invited the officers, who played a big part in student-written definitions describing a “hero.”

One student named Jacob wrote:

“Most people think heroes always have swords and shields.

Really, they are every day people.”

Amanda wrote:

“A hero is not always strong physically, but strong in the heart.”

Here are some photos of the day, courtesy the DMPD:

UPDATE 5/20/10: Des Moines Police emailed us today with word that Ileah Darby has been located. According to the DM PD, she called her mother to report that she is fine.

Here’s the announcement:

On May 7th the Des Moines Police department sent out a press release requesting assistance in the locating of Ileah Darby (28 year old female).  Ms. Darby has called her mother to report she is fine.  Our case number is 10-0963.  Ms. Darby is no longer considered missing and endangered. We believe the media’s assistance in incident led Ms. Darby to call.

The Des Moines Police Department would like to thank each agency for whatever assistance you were able to provide regarding this case.

PREVIOUSLY: On Friday (May 7), the Des Moines Police Department announced that it is requesting the public’s help in locating a missing pregnant woman named Ms. Ileah Darby.

According to a bulletin:

Ms. Darby is a 28-year old African American with black hair and brown eyes.

She is 5’02 and weighs 140 pounds.

She is six months pregnant and has a seizure disorder. She is not on medications.

Ms. Darby is known to frequent Pacific Highway in the South King County area. She is also known to stay in homeless camps and may be in the company of her boyfriend, a Dashawn Burrell. Mr. Burrell walks with a noticeable limp.

Ms. Darby was last seen in her mother’s home in Des Moines on April 18th, 2010.

Here’s a photo provided by the DM PD:

Anyone who has information as to the whereabouts of Ms. Darby is asked to call 911 or the Des Moines Police Department at 206-878-3301.

The Des Moines Police Department has partnered with the Preventing Auto Theft Through Regional Operational Links (PATROL) Task Force to distribute free steering wheel lock devices (aka “The Club”) to the owners of Honda Accords and Civics manufactured between 1991 to 1998. These are some of the most commonly targeted vehicles by auto thieves.

Ten area police departments are participating in this program.

To get yours, contact Tonya Seaberry at 206-870-7619.

Here’s more info from a press release:

Due to the increase in thefts of Honda vehicles, several local police agencies are making The Club available to owners of 1991-1998 Honda Accords and Civics free of charge as part of the statewide authority to reduce vehicle crimes.

In 2007, the legislator created the Washington Auto Theft Prevention Authority (WATPA) in the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPC). The Authority consists of 10 Governor appointees serving staggered terms. Representatives of law enforcement, prosecution, the auto industry, the insurance industry, the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs and the private sector are included as members of the Authority. WATPA aims to reduce vehicle theft across the state and funds several regional task forces.

The Preventing Auto Theft Through Regional Operational Links (PATROL) Task Force is made up of all South King County police departments and Bonney Lake and Sumner Police Departments. Several cities which contract for police services with the King County Sheriffs Office also participate in PATROL.

Own a '91-'98 Honda? You could get a "Club" for free.

As part of the PATROL task force’s auto theft prevention strategies, local police departments have a quantity of the steering wheel locking devices (The Club) available for free. To obtain the free Clubs, Honda owners must prove Honda ownership by showing a current Department of Licensing registration at one of the participating police departments. This offer is available only while supplies last.

“Vehicle thefts continue to be a crime plaguing the South King and North Pierce County areas. Remember, vehicle crimes are most of the time preventable. We know that auto thieves target certain vehicles and we hope through this initiative, the public will become better aware of their ability to prevent auto theft from occurring. Using devices such as The Club is absolutely recommended and a huge deterrent to auto thieves,” said Kent Police Lieutenant John Pagel, who also commands the PATROL Task Force.The Clubs are available for pick up at several police departments.

Other participating police departments and contacts are:

• Covington PD: Chief Kevin Klason, 253-638-1110
• Federal Way PD: Kelly Crouch, 253-835-6710
• Kent PD: Sara Wood, 253-856-5851
• Maple Valley PD: Robin Larsen, 425-413-5158
• Newcastle PD: Aleta Phillips, 425-649-4444
• Renton PD: Cyndie Parks, 425-430-7521
• Sumner PD: Det. Troy Nikolao, 253-299-5655
• SeaTac PD: Officer Doug Reynolds, 206-973-4904
• Tukwila PD: Chris Partman, 206-431-2197

We just received word from Highline Public Schools that they are investigating allegations that Jayson Boehm, formerly employed as a substitute stadium manager, provided health care to student athletes without appropriate medical supervision, as well as possibly fondling some male athletes.

Upon learning of the allegations, the district fired Boehm and barred him from school property.

According to the district, the allegations against Boehm came to light through two sources:

1. A school nurse alerted her supervisor when she noticed that Boehm had written a medical excuse for a student.
2. At the same time, a King County Sheriff’s detective alerted the district of their investigation into allegations that Boehm inappropriately examined an athlete in a Police Athletic League boxing competition in White Center (note: according to The Seattle Weekly, four Seattle Seahawks attended this match). The athlete is an adult and not a student.

The district says that the King County Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Health have been investigating Boehm’s conduct. The district is cooperating with these agencies and has launched its own investigation, taking the following actions:

• Identifying an outside investigator to continue the investigation.
• Contracted with WIAA to conduct a full audit of the management of high school and middle school athletic programs and pledged to fully comply with the recommendations of WIAA.
• Placed the district athletic director and a high school athletic director on administrative leave until the conclusion of the investigation.
• Informing parents of all students who received physicals from Boehm. Parents of students participating in spring sports were immediately informed by personal phone call.
• Arranged for all affected athletes to receive physicals from the Highline Youth Health Center at district expense.

“Student safety is our highest priority,” said Superintendent John Welch. “We are committed to making any changes necessary to ensure the protection and well-being of all students participating in our programs.”

As a substitute stadium manager, Boehm was to provide logistical support for activities at Highline’s Memorial Field in Burien. He had also been contracted to provide first aid at athletic events and to give first aid training to coaches and PE teachers, which he was qualified to do as a licensed Emergency Medical Technician.

Boehm had also served as a volunteer for Evergreen High School athletic teams in White Center.

The Des Moines Police Department is asking the public’s assistance with help in identifying two car prowl suspects.

The incident occurred in the early morning hours of April 26th in an apartment complex parking garage located in the 2400 block of S. Kent-Des Moines Rd.

The two suspects forced entry into two vehicles stealing various electronic components.

Suspect 1:

Suspect 2:

Suspect Vehicle: Dark colored Ford Crown Victoria (possibly mid to late nineties model)

Anyone with information regarding the identity of these subjects is asked to call Detective Paul Young at 206-878-3301.

Here’s this week’s Des Moines Police Department’s Police Blotter, with local crime news fed to us directly from our good friends at the DMPD.

This week’s crimes include the arrest of two burglary suspects immediately after they robbed a home, and how a stolen semi-automatic pistol was found on an unconscious man near the Redondo pier:

DES MOINES POLICE BLOTTER NEWS (May 7, 2010)

Two Arrested Immediately After Committing Residential Burglary: On May 7th at about 10:15 a.m. a 17-year old female resident was alone in the upstairs of the home when two burglary suspects entered. The suspects fled when they discovered the home was occupied. The homeowner called 911 and reported the burglary, stating the suspects left in a dark blue Honda. Federal Way PD assisted Des Moines PD in the arrest of the two suspects after locating the vehicle on Pacific Highway South. Both suspects are in their early twenties. One of the suspects has a history of weapon, drug, and burglary violations. Both suspects were booked into the Regional Justice Center on “residential burglary” violations.

Aid Assist Results in Arrest of Man in Possession of Stolen Firearm: On May 2nd at about 10:30 p.m. Des Moines Officers responded to Redondo after a citizen reported a man laying unconscious near the pier. The man was found in possession of a semi automatic pistol that had been reported stolen out of King County. The 20-year old man was determined to be a convicted felon with an outstanding drug warrant. The man was transferred to a local area hospital for treatment and then booked into jail for the warrant, “Possession of a Stolen Firearm,” and “Felon in Possession of a Firearm.”

On Wednesday (May 5th), the Des Moines Police Department sent us a Sex Offender Information Bulletin about Manuel Alaniz Jr., a Level 3 registered sex offender who will be living within the city limits.

Here’s the text of the full bulletin, followed by the actual graphic:

Date: 04/23/10

Prepared by: MSgt. Barry Sellers

Bulletin Number: 10-001

The Des Moines Police Department is releasing the following information pursuant to RCW 4.24.550 and the Washington State Supreme Court decision in State v. Ward, which authorizes law enforcement agencies to inform the public of a sex offenders release when; in the discretion of the agency, the release of information will enhance public safety and protection.

The individual who appears on this notification has been convicted of a sex offense that requires registration with the sheriff’s office in the county which they reside. Further, their previous criminal history places them in a classification level which reflects the potential to re-offend.

The sex offender has served the sentence imposed on him/her by the courts and has advised King County Sheriff’s Office that he will be living within the city limits of Des Moines. He/she is not wanted by the police. This notification is not intended to create fear but simply to inform the public of the individuals release.

The Des Moines Police Department has no legal authority to direct where a sex offender may or may not live. Unless court ordered restrictions exist, this offender is constitutionally free to live wherever he/she chooses.

Sex offenders have always lived in our communities; but it wasn’t until passage of the Community Protection Act of 1990 that mandates sex offender registration, that law enforcement even knew where they were living. In many cases, law enforcement is now able to share that information with you. Citizen abuse of this information to threaten, intimidate or harass registered sex offenders will not be tolerated. Further, such abuse could potentially end law enforcement’s ability to do community notifications. We believe the only person who wins if community notification ends is the sex offender, since sex offenders derive their power through secrecy.

Manuel Alaniz Jr.
14XX Kent Des Moines Rd
Age: 26
Hispanic Male
5’2”, 175 lbs
Black hair & Blue eyes

Alaniz was found guilty in 2004 of Rape of a Child in the third degree. It was determined that at the age of 19, Alaniz had a 13 year old girlfriend with whom he was sexually active. Alaniz was sentenced to 31⁄2 years in prison for this offense, of which he served approximately 2 years before being released on community supervision.

In 1999, at the age of 14, Alaniz sexually assaulted a 4 year old female. He had known the female for one day prior to the assault. Alaniz served approximately 8 months in juvenile prison for this offense.

Alaniz also disclosed he sexually assaulted another 4 year old female while at a church in 1999. Alaniz was never charged or convicted on this offense as the victim is unknown.

Alaniz did receive some sex offender treatment and therapy while serving time in prison as a juvenile. He refused to attend any type of sex offender treatment while serving his sentence in 2004.

Alaniz has a criminal history for failing to register as a sex offender. Alaniz is not currently under DOC supervision. Alaniz is considered a high risk to re-offend.