Federal Way’s Commitment to a Safer Community: A Personal Perspective from a Lifelong Resident

As we approach the end of the year, I’m proud to reflect on the significant strides our city has made. Federal Way has seen an 11% drop in overall crime, a testament to the hard work of our law enforcement officers, local organizations, and community members committed to making our home safer.

As someone who grew up here in Federal Way, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges our city has faced over the years. From walking to school as a child to watching neighborhoods change and grow, I’ve always believed in the strength of this community. That’s why I’m deeply invested in ensuring that Federal Way remains a safe and thriving place for families, just like it was for mine.

This year, one standout statistic is the dramatic 402% increase in drug-related arrests. While this might sound alarming, it’s actually a sign of progress. New drug possession laws, reclassifying possession as a gross misdemeanor, have allowed officers to take meaningful action against street-level narcotics activity. But this isn’t just about arrests; it’s about offering a second chance to those battling addiction.

When I think back to growing up here, I remember a time when neighbors looked out for each other, and community support was strong. That’s the Federal Way I want to preserve and build upon. Mayor Jim Ferrell recently emphasized that arrests are just the first step in helping individuals break free from addiction and return to a productive life. This approach aligns with my vision of Federal Way: a city where we tackle issues with compassion and solutions that make a difference.

Treatment courts are at the heart of this effort, providing a pathway for those struggling with addiction to find help rather than face long-term incarceration. This aligns with the values I learned growing up here—the importance of giving people the tools to succeed and the chance to rebuild.

In addition to addressing drug-related crimes, Federal Way has made incredible progress in reducing other serious offenses. Murders are down by 50%, motor vehicle thefts by 52%, and significant declines have been recorded in robberies and burglaries. These successes are due in part to updated state laws, which now allow officers to pursue suspects under reasonable suspicion, restoring a sense of accountability and order.

As someone who has called Federal Way home my entire life, I’m incredibly proud of the collaboration among law enforcement, community organizations, and treatment providers that has brought us to this moment. Their dedication reflects the spirit of our city—a place where challenges are met head-on with determination and innovation.

If you support these ongoing efforts to make Federal Way a safer and stronger community, I encourage you to reach out to local organizations, treatment providers, and law enforcement groups to see how you can contribute. Together, we can build on this momentum. As for me, I’m committed to continuing this good work to ensure Federal Way remains a city where safety, compassion, and opportunity are at the forefront. Let’s keep moving forward.