Tukwila Police Department Special Emphasis Unit detectives arrested a 27-year-old man with an active Department of Corrections warrant for escape Thursday afternoon, Feb. 5, after observing alleged narcotics activity at a city park, according to police.
Police said SEU detectives observed a group of around seven males consuming alcohol and narcotics just feet from children playing on a playground. A plainclothes detective approached and asked adults with children to remove them from the park before uniformed officers and detectives detained the involved parties.
According to Tukwila police, one of the subjects was observed dealing narcotics prior to contact with officers. The man has prior convictions for Attempted Murder in the Second Degree and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm in the Second Degree, police said. He also had an active DOC warrant for escape.
Police said the suspect told officers he believed he was in a catch and release city.
Detectives recovered 18 bags packaged for distribution containing what appeared to be a mixture of crystal methamphetamine and fentanyl, according to police.
In a statement, Tukwila police said:
“Our parks are for the public, families and children to enjoy. They are not safe havens for drug and alcohol use or other criminal activity. Our SEU detectives and patrol officers will continue to diligently patrol and monitor our parks and public spaces to ensure that they are safe and usable for everyone to enjoy.”
Photos courtesy Tukwila Police Department.
