Olympia, March 30, 2021 - The Washington Fraternal Order of Police president Marco Monteblanco has issued this statement regarding a recent incident in which a Thurston County Deputy was stabbed by a suspect:

“The members of the Washington Fraternal Police are relieved to learn that one of our fellow members, a Thurston County Deputy, is expected to make a full recovery after being stabbed in the neck and chest while on the job on Friday, March 26. But we are equally concerned that the suspect, who had a long history as a violent sex offender, was on the street and free to attack the officer and potentially others in the community.

“Given the suspect’s long criminal history, we believe a thorough investigation should be made into the decisions that led to his release, rather than being enrolled in a comprehensive mental health evaluation and treatment program. This incident is another illustration of the dangers our members and all peace officers face in protecting our communities, and underscores why changes in criminal justice policies and procedures must be undertaken with care and balance to ensure that both officers and those they serve remain safe.”

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