Seattle's Mayor Bruce Harrell has put forward a proposal for a pilot program that would see some misdemeanor offenders spending time at the South Correctional Entity (SCORE), rather than the current system under strain. The intention is to create a more consistent response to misdemeanors while integrating necessary services such as health, treatment, and legal aid for those in need. "The goal of this pilot is to give us needed flexibility, capacity, and stability in jail options, ensuring clear and consistent accountability for individuals based on their actions," Harrell stated in an announcement reported by his office.
The plan, which emerged from a stakeholder process with contributions from various corners of the criminal legal realm, is a manifestation of Harrell’s overarching vision for public safety—an arena that, by his admission, isn't fully served by the existing frameworks. This pilot program would utilize at least 20 beds at SCORE, coming at a potential annual cost ranging from one and a half to three million dollars, depending on how often they're used. Notably, the number of misdemeanor offenders held in city jails has decreased since 2019, highlighting problems such as an insufficient number of corrections officers and a bottleneck in bookings.
In a discussion with the interim Chief of Police Sue Rahr, she emphasized the complexity of the issues at hand. "Improving public safety requires a multi-faceted approach that includes both services and enforcement," Rahr told the Mayor's Office. The necessity to address behaviors that pose risks to both individuals and the broader community is central to the program's philosophy.
SCORE offers an array of facilities, including video court options and on-site medical, drug, and mental health treatment services. In an address, SCORE Executive Director Devon Schrum detailed the benefits of delivering additional resources: "Offering additional resources benefits persons receiving treatment and contributes to an overall safer jail and the communities’ receiving persons upon release from jail," Schrum said, highlighting the facility's extensive accreditations. Policymakers expect a system designed to ensure detainees, medically cleared and involved in non-exempt misdemeanors, can access such structured interventions during a limited stay.
The legislation, now pending City Council approval, mandates detailed policies regarding policing and utilization before its enactment. Feedback from a diverse group was instrumental in shaping this policy, with insights gleaned from service providers, civil rights advocates, and law enforcement. The city foresees funding for the implementation through underspend from the existing King County jail contract and subsequently through the general fund in 2025.
