Seattle's Chinatown-International District has found itself at the center of Mayor Bruce Harrell's public safety strategy after a series of stabbings rocked the community. In response, the Mayor's office has issued a statement, laying out a multi-pronged approach to improve safety in the area known as CID, emphasizing Little Saigon near the intersection of 12th & Jackon. Enhanced law enforcement patrols, augmented by increased cleanings and graffiti abatement, are among the initial measures to address concerns.
More intensive steps are in the pipeline, with the upcoming deployment of "evidence-based technology solutions," including CCTV cameras and establishing a Real Time Crime Center. The statement detailed that these added tools will aid in preventing and solving crimes within the CID. Collaborating with Friends of Little Saigon, neighborhood activation efforts are underway, such as new lighting and environmental design changes to deter crime.
The CID has seen heightened police activity recently, with the Seattle Police Department (SPD) making some "significant arrests" at Hoa Mai Park and near Little Saigon, according to the Mayor's office. Arrests have been made on counts ranging from violations of park rules to illegal firearm and drug possession, as well as executing outstanding warrants. These arrests come as part of the SPD's emphasis patrol initiative in downtown neighborhoods.
Further bolstering the city's public safety plan, Mayor Harrell has announced an agreement with King County to increase the capacity to handle misdemeanors. Additional beds will be available in King County Jail, providing the city with the "capacity and flexibility it needs to hold offenders accountable and ensure a functioning criminal legal system," the Mayor's statement clarified.