Poulsbo City Council faces outrage after police killing of Justin Mogling

The Poulsbo City Council meeting on May 14, 2025, was marked by intense public outcry following a recent police shooting incident that resulted in the death of a local man, Justin Mogling. The meeting served as a platform for community members to voice their grief and anger over the police's handling of the situation, echoing sentiments from a previous incident involving the death of Stonechild Chief Stick.

During the public comment period, numerous speakers, including family members of Mogling, expressed their heartbreak and frustration. They described the circumstances surrounding Mogling's death, which involved a police pursuit that ended with officers using lethal force. Many criticized the police for escalating the situation rather than employing de-escalation tactics, emphasizing that Mogling was in a mental health crisis at the time of the incident.

One speaker, Trishonda Picker, a member of the Suquamish Tribe and a mother of Stonechild Chief Stick's children, highlighted the need for better police training in de-escalation techniques. She and others called for accountability and transparency from the police department, urging the council to take action to prevent further tragedies.

Council members acknowledged the emotional weight of the discussions and expressed condolences to the families affected. They reiterated their commitment to transparency and announced that an independent investigation into the incident would take place, emphasizing the importance of allowing the investigative process to unfold.

The meeting concluded with council members reflecting on the need for improved community safety and the integration of mental health resources within law enforcement practices. They recognized the ongoing challenges and the necessity for change in policing strategies to better serve the community and prevent future incidents of violence.