Police and Public Safety

Seattle Council Greenlights Police Surveillance Expansion, Ignoring Community Objections

This week, the Seattle City Council took a controversial 7-2 vote to greatly expand the Seattle Police Department’s surveillance pilot program, as proposed by Mayor Bruce Harrell. Public comment was overwhelmingly against the idea, and progressive candidates also criticized the move.
Bruce Harrell sits at a desk signing some orders at City Hall with a dozen supporters looking on.

Bruce Harrell Stakes Claim to Center Lane in Seattle Mayor Bid

Former City Councilmember Bruce Harrell announced his bid for Mayor of Seattle today. While light on policy specifics, the themes Harrell stressed included decreasing...
Councilmember Rob Saka sits on the council dais in a tan sportscoat.

Seattle Approves Controversial Police Guild Contract, Three Councilmembers Dissent

In a 6-3 vote, Seattle City Council approved a police guild contract that falls short on officer accountability and continues to hinder civilian crisis responders. A parting gift from outgoing Mayor Bruce Harrell, the contract could hamstring the incoming administration of Katie Wilson.
In a night time image, dark police officer silhouettes emerge from an armored truck amidst a backdrop of a cloud of tear gas.

Chaos and Banned Weapons: SPD’s Use of ‘Mutual Aid’ Police Departments in 2020

Newly unearthed records show SPD exploited a policy loophole, deploying dangerous and toxic weapons during the 2020 protests via partner agencies with little to...
Students hold signs urging gun prevention and holistic approached to end violence.

Op-Ed: Seattle Leaders, Keep Your Promise — Keep Cops Out of Schools

A group of high school student activists make the case we don’t need more cops in schools. We need more care, as the Seattle Student Union fought for and had been promised. The research is clear on what works.
The King County Jail and Administration Building is the backdrop for the press conference.

Op-Ed: Protecting Democracy Requires Unbiased Law Enforcement — Not Davison’s Extreme Agenda

Republican Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison has used her power to target her opponents and protect her political allies among the rich and powerful. Voters should deny her a second term.

Seattle Officials Tout Safety, Mental Health Interventions for New School Year

City and school officials promise a tangible change in safety and student supports when the new school year begins. But they're delivering fewer mental health investments than student groups requested.
Source: Central Protection

How Do Private Security Patrols In Seattle Neighborhoods Affect Livability?

In December 2015, a team of private security guards from Central Protection began making six-hour patrols around the Magnolia residential area. In February 2016,...