PORT ANGELES — Clallam County Sheriff Brian King is opposing proposed changes to Washington court bail rules, warning they could increase failures to appear and strain local law enforcement.
Thursday was the deadline to submit public comments to the Washington Supreme Court Rules Committee on amendments to CrR/CrRLJ 2.2 and 3.2. King submitted a letter urging rejection of the proposals.
The Washington Supreme Court Rules Committee is considering changes that would make it more likely for people to be released from jail before trial, and less likely for cash bail to be used. The rules would also require judges to use the least restrictive conditions needed to make sure people show up in court.
King says the changes would make it more difficult to detain defendants who miss court by requiring proof they intentionally fled, and could allow bail as low as 200 dollars in some cases, including for individuals with prior failures to appear.
King says the impact would be especially significant in rural Clallam County, where deputies cover large distances between communities including Port Angeles, Sequim, Forks, and Clallam Bay. He says time spent locating defendants reduces the ability to respond to emergencies.
He also warns the changes would add pressure to already limited jail and court capacity, leading to more delays for victims and witnesses.
King says the proposals would also limit judicial discretion in assessing public safety risks involving repeat offenders tied to property crime, domestic violence, or substance use.
He is urging the committee to reject the amendments, saying they are based on outdated data and do not reflect current conditions in rural counties.