Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 17, 1999
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Locke tells state to keep violent sexual predators confined

OLYMPIA — Gov. Gary Locke today said the state of Washington will continue to comply with federal court orders requiring improvements at the Special Commitment Center for violent sexual predators, and that he will act to ensure that the state is not forced to release dangerous sex offenders.

"I ask the Legislature to join me in ensuring that the civil commitment program meets constitutional standards so that we are never forced to release dangerous sex offenders into the community without adequate treatment or supervision," Locke said.

U.S. District Judge William Dwyer ruled earlier this week that the state has not done enough to remedy problems at the facility on McNeil Island. He said sanctions could be imposed if problems are not addressed.

State attorneys contend the Special Commitment Center (SCC) meets constitutional requirements and may appeal the judge's ruling. But Locke said the state will take steps to ensure there are no early releases at the center housing about 100 violent sex offenders.

The Community Protection Act of 1990 allows the state to involuntarily commit inmates diagnosed as violent sex predators.

"The state will continue to fulfill its duties under the constitution and the Community Protection Act, and will continue to comply with orders of the federal court," Locke said.

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