King County Executive and Sheriff extend condolences to Lakewood Police

December 2, 2009

Summary

King County Executive Dow Constantine has joined with King County Sheriff Sue Rahr in extending condolences to the families and co-workers of four Lakewood Police officers killed earlier this week. They also signaled their joint support for the fallen officers' co-workers and other law enforcement officers around the state by ordering flags at King County facilities lowered until the Lakewood officers are laid to rest next week.

Story

King County Executive Dow Constantine has joined with King County Sheriff Sue Rahr in extending condolences to the families and co-workers of four Lakewood Police officers killed earlier this week. They also signaled their joint support for the fallen officers' co-workers and other law enforcement officers around the state by ordering flags at King County facilities lowered until the Lakewood officers are laid to rest next week.

Executive Constantine says he also expects to order an inquest into the death of Maurice Clemmons, the man suspected of shooting the Lakewood officers, once he receives a recommendation from the King County Prosecutor upon completion of the police investigation. The ordering of an inquest is standard in any death that involves a member of any law enforcement agency in King County in the performance of his or her duties.

"The deaths this week in our region are shocking and tragic," said Executive Constantine. "It is a grim reminder of the danger that law enforcement officers face every single day to protect and serve our community. Our hearts and prayers go out to the families of the officers we lost, and to their fellow officers statewide who continue to go out each day to make our lives and communities safer, despite the risks."

"My thanks to everyone who has offered support and condolences to officers and deputies across the region, "said Sheriff Sue Rahr. "Despite the terrible deaths of four of our law enforcement family, we remain on the job, doing our best to keep the streets safe. We continue to stand between those who would do us harm and the public."