Statement from Governor Gregoire on Report from Department of Corrections

For Immediate Release: March 15, 2007

OLYMPIA � Governor Chris Gregoire today issued the following statement regarding the Department of Corrections report on community supervision practices.

�This report reminds us of the tragic loss of the three officers and the sorrow their families, friends and communities have suffered. I extend my continued thoughts and prayers.

�We need to commit, as a state, that we will work together to prevent these tragedies in the future. We cannot tolerate this kind of loss of life. Public safety is a top priority. We must � and we will � do all we can to keep violent criminals off the street.

�My initial review suggests we need more accountability. The Department of Corrections must take steps to increase control of parolees and other offenders.

�We must work more closely with city and county law enforcement to keep offenders behind bars and provide real penalties for parole violation. When an offender has served their time, the goal must be to ensure that they become law-abiding citizens.

�I will work with Secretary Clarke, legislators, prosecutors and law enforcement officials to strengthen laws and policies to hold criminals accountable.�

###