The Kent Police Department is seeking the public’s help to identify and locate a suspect in a sexual assault that occurred early Sunday afternoon on Kent’s West Hill. A press release distributed by the police department this morning states that the assault occurred at Dollar Tree on Pacific Highway (23406 Pacific Highway South) where a man allegedly exposed himself and was touching his genitals in front of a six-year-old girl. The store surveillance cameras released this image.

Description:  White adult male, between 18 and 25, dark hair, 5′ 7″ tall, medium build.

Kent Detective Melanie Frazier said, “We want to ensure the public is aware of this incident, and that this case is a top priority for our investigators. Perpetrators like this do not belong in our community.”

Anyone with information about the suspect should call 9-1-1 or the Kent Police Department tip line at 253-856-5808.

After a winter hiatus, Kent Police Chief Ken Thomas reports that the city’s bike patrols will be back on the streets May 1. There will be four officers and a supervisor, scheduled to be on the street seven days a week. Focuses will be on the downtown transit center, shopping areas and parks including Town Square Plaza, Kaibara Park and the gazebo. The bike unit will also be available to deploy to other areas of Kent, as needed.

Kent Mayor Suzette Cooke said in an April 15 press release, “I’m very happy our police are again providing this valuable service to residents, businesses and visitors. It’s just in time for the better weather and increased use of outdoor spaces.”

[Photo by Dana E. Neuts for iLoveKent.net]

Apr. 1:  Oreo – Better than a cookie, this calf at Lazy Larry’s Ranch is the cutest black and white cow I’ve ever laid eyes on. He makes me smile every time I see him.

Apr. 2:  City of Kent Police Department – As a parent and a member of the Kent community, I appreciate all that the Kent PD does for our city, but also their quick response when dealing with the threat on Kentwood High School last week.

Apr. 3:  Public Art – The City of Kent and its parks have a nice array of public art on display throughout the city. It’s a fun change of pace to see all of the many artists that have touched our lives over the years.

Apr. 4:  The RAM at Kent Station is one of my favorite hangouts. I love the good food, friendly servers and the casual atmosphere.

Apr. 5:  Our Kent Parks system is outstanding. Throughout the city, you can find a park within walking distance. Pet parks, people parks, playgrounds, lakes and more! We’re lucky to live in a city with such easily accessible and well-maintained amenities.

Apr. 6:  Kent cares about recycling. It’s important to me that we lighten our carbon footprint for future generations and the city of Kent does that through a variety of recycling programs and events.

Apr. 7:  Kent Senior Activity Center, 600 E. Smith St., offers a number of programs and activities for Kent seniors, but it is also open to the community for events on a regular basis. It’s centrally located, well kept and family friendly. Thanks to the City of Kent and the Kent Senior Center staff and volunteers for providing this resource for our community.

Apr. 8:  Earthworks Gem Design Studio:  This locally owned store has the most beautiful and unique pieces.

Apr. 9:  No Excuses University at Scenic Hill Elementary

Apr. 10:  Great location:  Kent is located equidistant from Tacoma and Seattle.

Apr. 11:  Joselito Castillo and South Sound Dance Force

Apr. 12:  Home Depot

Apr. 13:  Perk Up Place:

Apr. 14:  Mad Hatter Antiques & Collectibles: I just learned they’ve closed. I’m very sad about this — loved this place!

Apr. 15:  Mini Golf at Kent Valley Ice Center:  Affordable family fun!

Apr. 16:  Amante Pizza & Pasta in the valley has the best pizza this side of the Mississippi.

Apr. 17:  Chipotle is a great place for fresh, healthy food with a little zip.

Apr. 18:  Victoria Andrews, queen of Kent Parks, is an unsung hero for all of her hard work and dedication to the parks and its volunteers.

Apr. 19:  Springtime in Kent is breathtakingly beautiful – flowers in bloom, trees budding, majestic mountain views.

Apr. 20:  Town Square Plaza is a fun, family-friendly gathering place which serves as a hub for city events.

Apr. 21:  The Rotary Clubs of Kent do a great job of outreach, providing dictionaries to third graders, supporting local veterans and other causes.

Apr. 22:  Hearing the trains in and around Kent reminds me of home.

Apr. 23:  ASL Teacher Barbara Key of Kentwood High School has been a mentor and an inspiration to my daughter. Thank, Mrs. Key, for all you do.

Apr. 24:  Kent Youth & Family Services is a hard-working, dedicated nonprofit serving youth in South King County.

Apr. 25:  The entrance to Kentwood High School in the springtime is beautiful with the flowering trees lining the parking lot and Mt. Rainier as the school’s backdrop.

Apr. 26:  Kent is a pet-friendly city with lots of parks and open spaces for us to enjoy with our four legged friends.

Apr. 27:  The Green River Trail is a beautiful way to explore our city.

Apr. 28:

Apr. 29:

Apr. 30:

Assistant Chief Pat Lowery of the Kent Police Department reports that two baristas from Twin Peaks Espresso (24013 104th Ave. SE, Kent) were arrested Wednesday. The first, a 23 year old woman from Mountlake Terrace, was arrested for prostitution. The second was a 19 year old Lynnwood woman who was arrested Wednesday afternoon and charged with violation of Kent’s adult entertainment ordinance. Both women were booked at the Kent Corrections Center.

According to the press release, Kent PD’s Special Investigation Unit began investigating the espresso stand in October after reports that female employees were exposing themselves and committing lewd acts for customers are the drive-through window. The women were paid in tips that ranged from $10 to $25. Using site surveillance and drive through contacts, the SIU identified a number of baristas who were participating in the illegal behavior. Detectives also reviewed the business practices of other “bikini barista” stands throughout Kent to ensure their compliance with local ordinances.

Assistant Chief Lowery said, “These arrests do not signal the end of this investigation.”

Additional employees are likely to be charged. If you have information that could assist the police, or if you have any questions, contact Assistant Chief Lowery at 253-856-5833.

Kent Police Department reports that vehicle prowls are on the rise again. Last week, there were 41 prowls which is unusually high, according to the city. Often vehicles are targeted because of valuables left inside. Most vehicle prowls are, however, preventable. The city offers these vehicle prowl prevention tips and asks that readers share these tips with their friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, Block Watches and other members of the community.

• Secure your vehicle every time you park; lock car doors, roll up windows, use your alarm system and consider installing a CLUB on your steering wheel. Access to several vehicles was gained through unlocked doors.

• Remove all valuables EVERY TIME you park. Criminals are smashing windows to gain access:  stealing iPods, cell phones, chargers, CDs, GPS units, shopping bags and even change.

• Get to know your neighbors. Know which cars are familiar for your neighborhood.

• If you park on the street, try to park under street lights and nearby your house/business.

• If you hear a car alarm, please pay attention to it. Look out the window. Report all suspicious activity, people or vehicles, by calling 911. If you ask yourself, “should I call 911,” the answer is probably yes.

• If you are a victim of any crime, report it by calling 911 or filing an online police report. Visit www.kentWA.gov/police and click on the link for “File an Online Police Report.” Police want to hear about it!
  

For more crime prevention tips, visit www.kentpoliceceu.com

KENT, Wash., Aug. 22, 2012– Kent Police Department’s Assistant Chief Pat Lowery reported in a press release this morning that a fatal collision occurred at 6:44 a.m. in the 12200 block of SE 223rd Dr. in Panther Lake this morning. Two vehicles were involved, a 1986 Nissan sports car and a 2006 Suzuki motorcycle. According to Lowery, the Nissan crossed the center line of SE 223rd Dr. as he was entering a curve in the roadway. The Suzuki was passing through the curve at the same time, from the opposite direction. The Nissan hit the Suzuki, throwing the motorcyclist from the Suzuki. The motorcyclist, a David Daniel, 56 year old Kent man, died shortly after the accident. The 18 year old Kent man, driving the Nissan, was uninjured. Preliminary reports indicate that the driver of the Nissan was speeding.

“Information collected to this point suggests that the passenger car was being driven well in excess of the posted 25 mile per hour speed limit,” Lowery said. Investigators will continue to collect evidence at the scene.

Photos provided by the Kent Police Department

From Asst. Chief Pat Lowery of the Kent Police Department:

Kent Police investigating fatal knife assault: Victim brought to local medical center by assailant.

KENT, Wash. – May 25, 2012 – Kent Police are currently investigating an early evening stabbing. The assault, which left a 42 year old Kent man dead, is thought to have occurred inside a vehicle while the victim and his assailant were driving through the Kent area.

Officers and paramedics were summoned to the parking lot of the Kent Medical Center, located at 222 North State St, at 6:49 tonight. A staff member from the facility called Police after a teenage male came in to report that a family member was outside the building, in a vehicle, with a stab wound. Kent Police were on the scene within two minutes and discovered the victim in the parking lot. Medical treatment was administered however the victim was eventually pronounced dead at the scene.

Kent Police have arrested a 45 year old Kent woman for the death. She was also at the scene when officers arrived. While details of the incident are still being developed, it has been confirmed that the stabbing occurred inside the car as the pair drove about the area. Detectives are working to clarify the circumstances that led to the stabbing, as well as a motive for the fatal assault. “This is a very unusual situation” noted Kent Assistant Police Chief Pat Lowery. “Our detectives will be interviewing both the woman and the teenager to determine what led to the assault, as well as processing evidence from inside the car”. Kent Police expect to be at the scene for several hours this evening.

Did you know that prescription drugs are the second most commonly abused narcotic preceded only by marijuana? A nation wide effort to reduce drug abuse, Prescription Drug Take Back Day is scheduled for Sat., April 28 from 9 am to 2 pm at the front of the Kent Police Station, next to Kent City Hall, 220 Fourth Avenue South in downtown Kent.  The goal of this unique program is to provide a safe and secure environment for the community to turn in unused, expired or otherwise unneeded medications.

Medications that can be dropped off include controlled, non-controlled and over the counter medicines; all solid dosage pharmaceutical products and liquids in consumer containers and liquid products like cough syrup, cold medicines, etc.

Let’s reduce drug abuse!  If you have any of the above medications to get rid of, support the Prescription Drug Take Back Day by taking them to the Kent Police Station on Saturday, April 28 from  am to 2 pm.

The Kent Police Department reports that there were four robberies during the week of Jan. 17 – 23, 2012. Each included the taking of purses when victims were at an ATM, walking down the street or getting out of their cars to go into a store. They occurred at various times of day ranging from morning to around midnight. The city offers these tips for your safety:

1. Walk with confidence and purpose with your head up.
2. When you are standing at an ATM, walking down the street or getting out of your car, scan your surroundings for potential danger or suspicious activity.
3. Stay in well lit areas and avoid doorways, shrubbery and remote places.
4. Stay in pairs whenever possible.

If someone approaches you or seems to be following, cross the street or change directions and look for a safe place to go.

For more safety tips, visit the Kent Police Department online.

Click here to see the city’s public crime stats for the week of Jan. 17 – 23, 2012.

From Lt. Pat Lowery, PIO, Kent Police Department
253-856-5833

Kent Police to announce major break in Car Show shooting
Police Chief Thomas to release details at press conference Thursday

Kent, Washington, September 14, 2011 — Kent Police Chief Ken Thomas is inviting interested media to an 11 AM news conference on Thursday, September 15. At that time he will be updating the press regarding investigation of a gang-involved shooting that occurred at a local car show in late July. That shooting left twelve persons injured.

The news conference will be held at 23311 Pacific Highway South, the site of the shooting. Chief Thomas will be joined by regional law enforcement executives and City officials. He will announce a major breakthrough in the investigation and provide information about steps being taken to apprehend those involved.

The car show shooting took place on July 23. A physical disturbance led to several gang members firing guns into a large crowd of people. While many of those injured were gang members, several of the injured had no ties to gang activity but had merely come to view the cars.

Since those assaults, dozens of investigators have poured through evidence, surveillance video, and interviewed dozens of witnesses and victims in an effort to put together a clear picture of the events of that day. As a result, police are now working to capture those identified suspects.

“Law Enforcement agencies from throughout the region have dedicated significant resources to identify those involved in this incident and bring them to justice” noted Chief Thomas. “These arrests are just the first wave in an on-going effort to dismantle these violent gangs”. It’s anticipated that coordinated efforts spearheaded by the South King County Violent Gangs Initiative and other partnering agencies will bring additional arrests in the near future.

# # #

A 58 year old Kent man was shot and killed in downtown Kent by a three-year veteran of the Kent Police Department this morning. According to Federal Way Public Information Officer Cathy Schrock, the incident began before 9 am when the deceased asked a local cab driver to take him to various spots in the area. The cab driver discovered that the passenger had a long gun in his lap, and he became suspicious. The driver asked another cab driver to meet him near the transit center for back-up. Upon his arrival at the first cab’s location 301 Railroad Avenue North, the first cab driver exited his vehicle and and placed a call to 9-1-1 at 9:10 am.

A Kent police officer arrived on the scene near the Kent Transit Center approximately two minutes later. The suspect had exited the vehicle and his weapon was visible to the officer. The officer issued verbal commands to the suspect, who did not follow the orders. A second police offer arrived on the scene. When the suspect reached to his waist for the weapon, the first officer fired a shot, killing the man.

Schrock said the family of the deceased arrived at the scene following the incident and identified him. However, his name will not be disclosed to the public until the medical examiner releases it. In addition, the names of the Kent police officers who were involved in the incident were placed on administrative leave, protocol following officer-involved shootings. Their names will be disclosed in approximately 24 to 48 hours.

Shortly after the incident began, the Federal Way Police Department was called to the scene. They requested media support around 11 am. According to Schrock, requesting support from neighboring law enforcement departments is customary when a police officer is involved in a shooting.

Schrock said more information will be available Thursday or Friday. For more information, contact Schrock at piorequest@cityoffederalway.com.

Contributed by the Kent Police Department

Are you interested in starting a neighborhood blockwatch?

The Kent Police Department is hosting a city wide informational meeting on the benefits of starting and maintaining a neighborhood block watch.

Neighborhood Block Watch 101
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Kent City Hall Council Chambers

Why Attend?

• interested in starting a neighborhood block watch
• interested in re-starting an already formed block watch
• needing a refresher on maintaining a neighborhood block watch
• interested in hearing from other block watch captains and what has worked and what hasn’t
• interested in hearing about Kent crime trends and what residents can do to help prevent crime in their neighborhoods

What You Can Do Ahead of Time:

• find a neighbor or two to attend with you
• notify neighbors that you will be attending and bringing back information
• start mapping the neighborhood and forming a phone tree for each block watch (a block watch is 10-20 homes)

Please RSVP by April 8th to your Neighborhood Sector contact:

East Hill/Panther Lake Area: Stacy Judd at (253) 856-5883

Valley Area/West Hill: Sara Wood at (253) 856-5851

*This format is replacing individual neighborhood meetings. However, public education specialists will continue to visit block watches when crime trend concerns occur.

Kent residents are invited to learn more about their Police Department starting on April 20, 2011. The Community Police Academy is delivered in a series of classes that offer straightforward, candid information regarding daily and specialized operations of the Police Department, while defing the agency’s role in the community. Classes are held on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 p.m to 9:00p.m and are instructed by department members and civilian experts. There is a one Saturday session which will include tours of the City of Kent Corrections Center and the 9-1-1 facilities at Valley communications Center. After attending the first three classes, participants are also eligible for a ride-along with a Kent Police Officer. Classes are held at the Kent Police/Fire Training Center, 24611 116th Ave. SE in Kent.  A wide range of topics will be discussed to include patrol and traffic enforcement, detective and special investigations, SWAT, canine and other specialized Police functions. Thee will also be instruction on recruitment, hiring and training of Kent Police Officers. There is no cost for participating in the Community Police Academy. It is open to Adults 18 and over and you will need to pass a background check. Applications are available at the Kent Police Department, 220 4th Ave. S or the Kent Police Website at: www.ci.kent.wa.us/communitypoliceacademy. For general questions Please contact Cesi Velez at 253-856-5884.

Kent, City Public Works and Police Department are asking for your help in solving a huge mystery in the City of Kent. Where have all the storm drain grates disappeared to? The city is very worried as this type of crime puts the citizens at risk. When the storm drain grate or manhole cover is missing it leaves a large hole for people or animals to fall into. Vehicles can even encounter large damage by driving over an open storm drain. The grates weigh between 80 to 106 pounds and manhole covers are typically around 113 pounds. To report missing grates or covers, please contact Public Work Operations at 253-856-5600 or if you have any information regarding the thefts please call the Kent Police Department Tip line at 253-856-5808.

“Updated 3/1/2011. The family of the Kent Police Officer Rob McCuistion has invited the public to attend a memorial celebration of Rob’s life this Saturday March 5, 2011. Services will start at 11:00AM at the First Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 19800 108 Avenue SE, in Kent. Saturday’s service will incorporate traditional Police Honors while also recognizing Rob’s considerable achievements and contributions in life. “

On February 24th, 2011 Kent Police department lost one of it’s own. Officer Robin McCuistion was driving home early Thursday morning when his car left he roadway on Kersey Way Se in Auburn. The car traveled down a steep embarnkment and struck a tree where he died at the scene from his injuries. Officer McCuistion has been with the Kent Police department since August of 1997 where he spent his career on street patrol and response. He also was a Field Training Officer, working with police recruits preparing them for their street assignments. Officer McCuistion is survived by his wife and three grown children.

In a press release from Michelle Witham from the Mayor’s office, Mayor Suzette Cooke has named Ken Thomas as Kent’s newest Police Chief. He replaces Chief Steve Strachan who resigned at the end of December to take a position as Undersheriff for the King County Sheriff’s Department.

Ken Thomas Named Chief of Police for Kent

KENT, Wash. – January 19, 2011 – Ken Thomas, a 22-year police veteran with a history of innovative leadership and community outreach, will take the lead as the new Chief of Police for the City of Kent.

“Thomas’s leadership excellence and his ability to build strong relationships with diverse communities makes him an outstanding choice to lead our Police Department,” Mayor Suzette Cooke said. “Simply put, Ken is the right choice for our community and the right choice for the department.”

Currently serving as Captain of the 185-member department, Thomas is credited with leading Kent’s Community Oriented Policing Unit that has resulted in reduced residential burglaries and auto thefts.

“As a veteran of the department, he is very familiar with our community and neighborhoods, and recognizes our challenges,” Cooke said.

“I’m honored to be chosen for this position. I will do everything in my power to make Kent the safest city in the region,” Thomas said. “I’m looking forward to working with the Mayor and City Council, and every member of this great department, just as I’m looking forward to working with the community as a true partner in public safety.”

Four candidates were interviewed by three panels representing Kent’s diverse community, public safety professionals, and business and civic leaders.

“While each candidate’s breadth of experience and commitment were impressive, Ken Thomas was the overwhelming top choice of each of three panels,” said Cooke. “The panelists like the direction the department is going; the officers like the direction the department is going. We all want to keep the current momentum.”

Council President Jamie Perry said the entire Council supports the selection of Thomas. “He’s going to do a great job and he’s got the experience we need.”

Thomas holds a Master’s Degree in Organizational Development from Central Washington University in Ellensburg. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy.

Thomas will be sworn in as Chief within the next two weeks. He replaces Chief Steve Strachan, who resigned in December 2010 to serve as Chief Deputy of the King County Sheriff’s Office.

The Kent Police Department released the crime stats for last week, July 20-26, 2010, along with some helpful crime prevention tips to keep you and your family safe this summer.

Punched door lock and smashed windows:  According to Kent PD, these are two popular methods for thieves to use to gain access to your vehicle. To prevent this, always lock your car doors and remove valuables from your vehicle. These items are the most appealing to would-be thieves:  GPS units, tools, computers, spare change, sunglasses and cell phone charges.

Full-time DUI patrols are in force:  This summer special full-time DUI patrols are patrolling local streets and highways to keep drunk drivers off the road. Kent PD recommends that you be safe and be smart by finding alternative transportation if you’ve been drinking:  (1) take public transit; (2) designate a driver to remain sober; and (3) take a taxi.

Never leave children unattended in a vehicle: Did you know that it is illegal to leave your vehicle running with a child in it? In addition, running cars with kids in them are easy targets to thieves, and it is unsafe to leave your child or pet in the car during the summer time. When outdoor temps are 80 or above, the inside temp of your vehicle can escalate to as high as 130 degrees in just an hour!

For more tips like these or to learn more about crime prevention, contact one of the Kent PD’s public education specials:

West Hill – Cesi Velez, 253-856-5884

East Hill – Stacy Judd, 253-856-5883

Valley – Sara Wood, 253-856-5851