Council Members Praise Partnership with King County Prosecutor on Gun Violence Data

Seattle's Public Safety Committee meeting on July 22, 2025, highlighted the critical partnerships between city officials and law enforcement agencies aimed at enhancing community safety. Council Member Rivera emphasized the importance of collaboration between the city attorney's office, the King County prosecutor, and the Seattle Police Department, particularly in addressing gun violence and its impact on youth.

Rivera expressed gratitude for the ongoing communication and information flow regarding the North Precinct, which serves her district. She underscored that these partnerships are vital for developing effective policies and solutions to complex public safety issues. Rivera also mentioned her commitment to learning more about the Safer Schools Initiative, a program aimed at improving safety in educational environments, reflecting her personal concern for youth affected by gun violence.

The meeting also featured a presentation by David Baker, the director of data analytics for the King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office. He highlighted the office's innovative public-facing data dashboard, which provides transparency on gun violence cases and crime statistics across different precincts. This initiative positions King County as a leader in data accessibility among prosecuting offices nationwide.

The committee acknowledged the contributions of Casey McNerney from the prosecutor's office, who has been instrumental in maintaining communication with council members and constituents. His proactive outreach has fostered a sense of community engagement and trust.

As the meeting concluded, the emphasis on collaboration and data-driven decision-making was clear. These efforts are expected to enhance public safety and foster a more informed dialogue between city officials and the communities they serve. The committee looks forward to continuing these vital partnerships as they work towards safer neighborhoods in Seattle.