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Seattle's New Attorney Promotes Lenient Drug Offense Policy

1/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Seattle residents elected new progressive leaders in November, including Erika Evans as Seattle's city attorney.
Erika Evans campaigned on a lenient approach to low-level crimes.
On January 1, she directed the criminal division to refer drug possession or public use cases to a diversion program before any formal charges are filed.
The policy shift could significantly change how low-level drug offenses are handled in Seattle.

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Story summary

Seattle residents elected new progressive leaders in November, including Erika Evans as Seattle's city attorney.
Erika Evans campaigned on a lenient approach to low-level crimes.
On January 1, she directed the criminal division to refer drug possession or public use cases to a diversion program before any formal charges are filed.
The policy shift could significantly change how low-level drug offenses are handled in Seattle.