Tragedy in Tacoma

Reading the Seattle Examiner story of Jennifer Paulson, a special ed. elementary teacher in Pierce Co. Washington, this survivor is regularly reminded how dangerous it is to live in WA State. After years of being stalked, Jennifer finally obtained a restraining order a year and a half ago. That order violated, her assailant was arrested last week, bailing out on Monday for 10K. On Friday 2/26/2010 @ 7:30 AM, she was shot on school grounds in Tacoma, Washington.

Same city where former police chief David Brame killed his wife, Crystal Judson Brame, as their children watched. Crystal had filed for divorce, the documents specifying Chief Brame held a loaded gun to her head and threatened her...that the only way she was leaving him, was dead. The City Manager called the documents "a private matter". The lack of protocol for protection of domestic violence in Washington puts all residents in extreme risk, even more so when the accused is a public safety worker who carries a gun on the job. Though Crystal's family has made remarkable strides in terms of awareness in the state since she was shot in 2003, there's still a long way to go.

Last week HB 2777 extended was passed in WA State, constituents grateful for any recognition or support for domestic violence survivors, still a far cry from what 46 other states would consider reasonable. How many lives will be lost in Washington State before they have a paradigm shift in what is considered a "private matter"?

As this survivor made way to a Seattle ER after strangulation in 2005, a "private matter" protocol did not compell local authorities to even take a police report after verifying severity of injuries would require extended hospitalization...no immediate danger they said.

Advocates in Washington tell me to push for legislation, without local dv ordinances and protocol, would further endanger those at greatest risk. I ask readers to take a few moments of quiet reflection, focussed energy and attention to this dark cloud that engulfs the State of Washington. May its leaders collaborate to quickly enact the changes its residents deserve. May Jennifer Paulson's family find comfort in their sorrow, may Crystal Judson rest in peace. Too many have paid with their lives for this good old boy network and private matter designation. May it end here.

Reader comments always welcome and honored. My heart goes out to each of you, I love and thank you for your support. Stay blessed.