Organized Crime Group Targeting Asian Community

 

CONTACT

Jill Green, Redmond Police Department Public Information Officer
jgreen@redmond.gov
425-556-2627

Police Warn Public about Organized Crime Group Targeting Asian Community

 REDMOND, WA - The Redmond Police Department is asking community members to stay vigilant following a string of robberies in Redmond and nearby cities. The suspects are believed to be part of a Romanian organized crime group targeting elderly members of the East Indian community.

Suspects in these crimes, typically driving SUV rental vehicles, approach victims who are walking on sidewalks or in parking lots. Usually, a male driver and one or more female passengers contact victims by asking for directions or offering to trade jewelry. While engaging the victims in conversation, the suspects attempt to place costume jewelry on the victim and either swap it out for authentic jewelry or take it by force.

Five recent cases have involved female suspects wearing long dresses who use distraction techniques to steal valuable jewelry. Fortunately, the victims have not sustained serious injuries.

“These are not Hate crimes, but rather crimes of opportunity where the thieves travel around affluent neighborhoods and search for potentially vulnerable victims,” said Chief Darrell Lowe. “We encourage community members to be aware of their surroundings when walking alone outside and avoid wearing valuables.”

Redmond police ask everyone to use caution when approached by strangers in vehicles and not accept gifts from them. It is safest to travel in groups, especially when walking. If possible, leave jewelry and valuables locked in a safe when walking alone.

Anyone approached by strangers offering to trade or sell jewelry should contact law enforcement. For crimes within the City of Redmond, please call the Redmond Police Department at 425-556-2500.

PART 1: Council Approves License Plate Readers

 

PART ONE:  In an ongoing effort to address the increased rate of auto thefts and other crimes, the police department remains committed to using pursuit alternative technology.  

To that end, Council approved the police department's request to accept a $94,968,30 grant to fund installation of 22 automated license plate readers in strategic locations for the cameras and a subscription cost for two years. 

Flock Safety is the chosen vendor. 

Flock cameras have nothing to do with citizen habits of every day driving.  They will be used exclusively to reduce auto thefts and other crimes. 

Reported by Bob Yoder / Source:  Council 8/5/24 Business Meeting memo. 

Light Rail Graffiti

 

The light rail graffiti is adjacent Red Robin.  It's disturbing.  I've notified Mayor Birney and the code enforcement officer.  

-- Bob Yoder, 8/7/2023

King County Property Taxes Rise At 'Unprecedented' Rates; 2023Tax Hikes Likely

Property Value Data Released 5/13/2022

 "King county hasn’t yet determined next year’s 2023 property tax bills, but the hottest local housing markets are likely to see “a double-digit increase,” said King County Assessor John Wilson."

"The local market has taken off since early in the pandemic, spurred by a combination of few houses for sale, a flood of buyers taking advantage of low mortgage-interest rates, and a continuing influx of highly paid workers with stock options. That has driven up home prices across the region and worsened housing affordability. The median sale price for a single-family house in King County hit nearly $1 million last month."

-- By Heidi Grover, Seattle Times business reporter, 5/13/2022 (excerpted, edited)

2007 Public Safety Levy

A significant investment that has contributed to Redmond’s strong emergency services system is a property tax levy approved by voters in 2007. For more than a decade, this levy has provided essential support in keeping our Fire and Police Departments staffed, including funding for 18 firefighters and 17 police personnel.

However, over the last 15 years the purchasing power of the levy has decreased over time. Revenue from the levy by law can only grow 1% every year – but expenses have increased approximately 5% every year, rapidly outpacing revenue. The 2007 levy can no longer support the same services it once did. Our growing community and evolving public safety needs require additional investments now to ensure a safe and supportive system for everyone.

 Retaining critical staff working to keep us safe, $3.5 million

• The 2007 property tax levy approved by voters included funding for 18 firefighters (enough to staff an additional aid car and a new fire station) and 17 police personnel.

• Revenue from the levy by law has only grown 1% every year, while expenses have increased approximately 5% every year, rapidly outpacing revenue.

• $3.5 million will retain 18 firefighters (enough to staff a new fire station) and 17 police personnel.  

-- Bob Yoder, 3/21/2022

    `Source: Council meeting memo

The 2022 "Public Safety Levy" is: $10,392,872/year or ~ $28.33/month or ~ $340/year on a $1 million house.  Property taxes will be $0.34 per $1,000 assessed valuation.  $3.5 million will go to retaining 18 firefighters and 17 police personnel.

Police Chief Lowe Asks Council For De-escalation Equipment

Bola Wrap, Internet

The police department wants to ensure the safety of the community and staff when responding to critical incidents requiring appropriate de-escalation techniques while providing the most current and functional training and equipment. The department anticipates allocating one-time federal funds as follows:

· BolaWrap: The Wrap can safely & humanely restrain resisting subjects from a distance without relying on pain compliance and while keeping all involved safe. When used to control subjects in a mental or drug-impaired crisis, this tool enables officers to keep the community safe and get people the help they need without causing injury. Link to BolaWrap website . ($7,000) 

· Virtual Reality (VR): Axon VR Training provides comprehensive real-world training paired with Taser and other weapons systems to ensure training, coaching, and development for critical incidents. Empathy insights, critical thinking, analytical, and de-escalation skills training are provided. Officer preparedness and tools to identify and address the psychological impacts of the public safety profession are addressed. Link to Axon VR Training website . ($83,000) Pricing starts at $700,  Our police chief wants VR Training beyond his allocation.

· Taser 7 upgrades: Upgrading to Axon Taser 7 provides for the must current platform, integrates with use/training records, and integrates with the Virtual Reality training system. Link to Taser 7 website . ($191,000)  Then ~$60.00/month. [As a lay citizen IMO this upgrade is a luxury; spend it or lose it.]

Committee Of The Whole, memo, 9/22/2021

"Support Democracy/Police" Signs Are Protected Free Speech Signs.

I did confirm with legal that these signs are protected political free speech signs, just as Defund the Police sharing another political viewpoint would be as well.

The signs are not being placed out by City staff.

In regards to the “fine” specified on the sign - a citizen does not enforce the laws of Washington (RCW’s). They would have to seek guidance from the State or County if their signs were removed.

Please let me know if you have any other questions

Carl

Carl McArthy

Code Enforcement Officer,

City of Redmond

.............................................

425-556-2412

425-443-1232

cmcarthy@redmond.gov

www.redmond.gov

Redmond Police and Mental Health

Redmond Police Department Adding New Embedded Mental Health Provider 

Internet

The Redmond Police Department has added an embedded mental health provider to respond to calls involving mental health issues and provide resources to individuals in the community facing mental health challenges. The Police Department was awarded a grant from the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs that will fund this temporary position.

City to raise Police salaries

redmond.gov

The City of Redmond and the Redmond Police Association (RPA) have successfully completed a collaborative negotiation process resulting in the proposed 2019-2021 Labor Agreement.

The Redmond Police Association represents uniformed, commissioned Police Officers, Police Sergeants, and new for 2019, Corporals.

In 2019, Officer base salaries will increase by 4 percent, plus an additional approximate 1.19 percent to move the ranges to be competitive in the market. In 2019, there will also be a one-time cost of $15,249 to add vacation time to 37 employees’ banks so that the Labor Agreement will be consistent with the City personnel manual with regard to vacation accrual.

Police Officer (effective January 1, 2019)
    > $79.608/year 0-12 months
    > $92,916/year 49+ months
Corporal:  $101,424/year
Sergeant:  $108,516/year

As second raise was negotiated effective January 1, 2020.

Police Officer (effective January 1, 2021)
     > $85,272/year 0-12 months
     > $98,760/year 49+ months
Corporal: $108,636/year
Sergeant: $116,244/year

Source:  10/16/18 City Council Regular Meeting Agenda

-- Bob Yoder

Redmond to open behavioral health and vocational service office

Council approved a $84,122 grant from Washington Association of Police for integrated behavioral health and vocational services to low income residents of King County.  Services will be located in an office in Redmond and provide the clinical staff for a Mental Health Field Response Team.

Over the past three (3) years the City of Redmond and the Redmond Police Department (RPD) have worked to develop a comprehensive, innovative approach to deal with the complex issues our region faces stemming from unprecedented increases in homeless individuals and the opioid addiction epidemic. We began with the addition of an Outreach Specialist, Kent Hay, that is embedded with our Patrol response. He has assisted by creating a Community Resource Center that has brought representatives from many social service agencies together on a weekly basis.

Redmond Police Department Carries the Torch for Special Olympics | Kirkland Views

Jim Bove, Redmond Police
Community Outreach

Redmond Police Department Carries the Torch for Special Olympics Kirkland Views:

"The Redmond Police Department participated in escorting the Special Olympics Torch through Redmond shortly after 6:00 a.m. Friday morning.
The torch precession started in Eastern Washington and came through Redmond on its way to Ft. Lewis for the Special Olympics games."

By Rob Butcher
Kirkland Views
Photo By Jim Bove

Letter: "Really, this was Derby Days Weekend"?

The 70th Annual Redmond Derby Days expands events, attracts 'larger turnout' (July 19th, 2010 "Redmond Reporter" edition)”

The parade was longer, had more entrants, and had a crowd along the streets present for viewing. However, I was amazed by the number of people I ran into after Derby Days that said “Really, this was Derby Day’s weekend? I had no idea!”

For weeks prior to the Ananda Mela Festival there were signs everywhere. Sandwich boards on streets, signs on cars, flyers in windows. Where were the signs, posters and advertisements regarding Derby Days -- A page on the back of the “Redmond Focus” magazine, a link on the website?

A town I lived in for several years as a teenager had a huge banner at the entrance to the city for everyone coming into the town to see. There was no doubt when our town celebration was held.

Walking around after the parade at the booths I was shocked at how few offerings there were to attract families. Many booth spots were empty. And the carnival on the other side of town (not the first year) was certainly not a draw for families to attend after the parade.

I have lived in Redmond for over 20 years. I am constantly amazed at what the city considers important. This is our town celebration, a SeaFair event, something people should look forward to all year. I’m sure they would if there were any advertising about it.

Once again, the City just doesn’t get “it”

Paige Norman
Education Hill
7/26

Photo:  Paige with grandchildren

Liquor Control Board and Police do a "liquor sting" on local estabishments

A joint enforcement operation conducted last night between the Redmond Police Department and the Washington State Liquor Control Board found that 22% of establishments weren't doing their job correctly.

Officers and agents worked with underage informants in an attempt to purchase alcohol within the City of Redmond. Of the 103 businesses visited with liquor licenses, 23 sold to the informants, a 78% compliance rate.

Violators were cited for furnishing alcohol to a minor. The Washington State Liquor Control Board will follow up with offending businesses with administrative actions. At all locations, when ID was requested of the minor, a valid Washington State ID showing actual date of birth was presented.

“The good news is that an overwhelming majority of establishments and employees are doing things correctly,” commented Lt. Erik Scairpon. “We will work with those in violation along with the Liquor Control Board in hopes to educate them and bring the number of violations down in the future. At the end of the day, we want people to be safe.”
 
Locations busted:
Redmond Way (4) - City Center (16),  Avondale (2),  Education Hill (3)  
 
Source:  Jim Bove
Redmond Police

"Drugstore Cowboy", James Fogle, arrested in Redmond, WA pharmacy.

Movie Trailer "Drug Store Cowboy", with Matt Dillon
James Fogle — whose life of crime and addiction became the basis for an acclaimed film, "Drugstore Cowboy" — is back in jail again.

By Christine Clarridge
Seattle Times staff reporter

Some old dogs really don't learn new tricks.

James Fogle — who immortalized his life of crime and addiction in a book that became the basis for an acclaimed film, "Drugstore Cowboy" — is back in jail again.

Fogle and another man, 45-year-old Shannon Benn, were arrested on Tuesday while attempting to rob a Redmond pharmacy, according to police

He's 73 years old and this is probably the only thing he knows," said Jim Bove, a spokesman for the Redmond Police Department.

Read More

Do you know what Redmond pharmacy Fogle allegedly tried to rob? 

Posted by Bob Yoder
Seattle Times News Partner 

Redmond Council confirms Ron Gibson for City Police Chief

At its April 27 meeting, the Redmond City Council confirmed Mayor John Marchione's choice for City Police Chief, Ron Gibson, currently the Deputy Chief of Colorado Springs, CO (population 418,076).

"Throughout the interview process, Ron displayed the characteristics and traits required of a director on my management team," stated Mayor Marchione. "His leadership and management skills, along with excellent interpersonal skills, will make him a valuable addition to the City's Police Department and the community."

Councilmember Dave Carson said,  "The thing I took away from our first meeting was you are just personable and I think people really want to see that.... We were just really impressed with your demeanor your skills and background....and your personality."

Councilmember Hank Margeson said, "This police force you are about to take over is one of the elite, in my mind, not only in the state but in the nation.  I couldn't think of a better candidate to help lead those many, many leaders that we have on the streets making critical decisions every day...."

Councilmember John Stilin said:  "I like to make things pretty personal for me, and I would want to work for you.  When I heard you talk about how you would grow people -- it's something that I heard from a former boss that I had.  He called it "Sandbox Theory":  you give people a place to play, you tell them to kinda go and do the best they can do and you come up with solutions and you let them run."

Councilmember Pat Vache' appreciated Ron's "inclusiveness, openness, and getting community involved -- I think that matches well with the department we have now... and  learning how to get continuously better."

Councilmember Hank Myers is Chair of the Public Safety Committee and will interact with Chief Gibson extensively over the next 20 months. Mr. Myers commented about Gibson's "history of interaction with the community, human service agencies,  non profits,  civic agencies community agency to help  broaden the appeal and the cooperation between police department and community."

After the Council confirmation, Richard Cole, City Council President remarked, "The process to hire a new Police Chief took just over one year and has been well worth the time."

Mr. Gibson holds a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Colorado State University, a Masters of Criminal Justice from the University of Colorado and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the Center for Creative Leadership.   Mr. Gibson will relocate to Redmond and begin his position as Redmond's Police Chief in June.

By Bob Yoder
Source:   Council Meeting tapes & city press release

Five arrested in Kirkland home invasion. 20 detectives find 300 plus pot plants

5 arrested in Kirkland home invasion.  20 detectives find 300 plus pot plants

King County sheriff's detectives have arrested four men and a juvenile male in connection with Monday's early-morning break-in and shootout at the home of a medical-marijuana activist near Kirkland.
One of the suspects, a 19-year-old Renton man, was shot and critically wounded by homeowner Steve Sarich.  read more

By Mark Rahner and Sara Jean Green
Seattle Times staff reporters