The Washington State Legislature is bringing back to voters a referendum on the "Lakewood Law Enforcement Memorial Act," allowing judges the discretion to deny bail to accused offenders who are facing life in prison if there is "clear and convincing evidence of a propensity for violence that creates substantial likelihood of danger to the community."
The proposed Constitutional amendment -- championed by Rep. Mike Hope (R-Lake Stevens), pictured at left, who is a Seattle police officer -- received a huge boost after four officers were gunned down by Maurice Clemmons last November at a coffee shop in the Tacoma suburb of Lakewood.
Clemmons was on parole for assaulting a police officer and child rape.
The legislation, HJR 4220, was pushed through by Hope, and Christopher Hurst (D-Enumclaw), with support from Gov. Christine Gregoire.
Portland and Seattle
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