Eide bill fights domestic abuse

OLYMPIA – It’s a sad truth that in communities across Washington, domestic violence rips apart relationships, causes injuries and takes lives. In the past several months, 50 cases have been reported in Federal Way. But Sen. Tracey J. Eide, who represents the 30th Legislative District, would add another tool that prosecutors could use against domestic abusers.

The bill would allow felony charges to be brought against abusers and others who strangle their victims. The crime of assault by strangulation would be categorized as second-degree assault. This is a class B felony punishable by a maximum of 10 years in prison and a fine of $20,000.

Eide introduced Senate Bill 5953 at the request of the Office of the Attorney General.

“This issue was brought to my attention by Jim Ferrell, Federal Way’s deputy mayor,” Eide said. “With his encouragement and help, I worked with the attorney general to craft a solution that helps to get to the heart of this act of violence.”

Ferrell, a senior deputy prosecuting attorney for King County, has prosecuted hundreds of cases of domestic violence in the past 12 years. “Current law does not adequately address the serious conduct of strangulation,” Ferrell said. “Domestic violence, at its core, is about control, and strangulation is the weapon of choice of people who regularly commit domestic violence. We need to ensure that offenders who abuse their partners through strangulation are held fully accountable. I am incredibly grateful to Sen. Eide for taking the lead on this very important issue to our community.”

Eide is hopeful that the bill will make a significant dent in the number of domestic violence cases. “I am committed to giving voice and strength to those who cannot fight for themselves,” Eide said. “By making this crime what is it — an attempt on the life of another — we will help protect those in need.”

The bill has yet to be scheduled for a committee hearing.

Return to Sen. Eide's home page