Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - September 1, 2000
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Statement by Gov. Gary Locke on the Joyce vs. DOC case

"Paula Joyce died three years ago in a tragic traffic accident in Tacoma, and her loss is still acutely felt by family and friends.

"The court case surrounding her death brings up some very serious questions, namely whether community supervision is any longer a workable system. I want this case appealed for several reasons. The issue here is whether the state can reasonably be held responsible for the actions of a released offender being monitored for an unrelated kind of offense. If the state were held responsible for any and all actions by a released offender, then it must be determined that community supervision is not viable for state or local government. This man was convicted of second degree possession of stolen property and third degree assault connected with a domestic dispute. Imposing liability for his involvement in an auto accident extends public liability too far.

"Do not confuse my attention to what can reasonably be expected of state government with any lack of sympathy for Mrs. Joyce's family. I mourn their loss.

"Understand that my belief in finding direct responsibility where it properly lies is critical to our society and to our system's ability to function."

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