A 911 call reporting an attempted break-in at a High Point apartment triggered a foot pursuit on Saturday that ended with Seattle Police arresting a 36-year-old man on suspicion of attempted domestic-violence burglary near 35th Avenue SW and SW Raymond Street. The man allegedly tried to force his way into his ex-girlfriend’s apartment by kicking down the door while she was inside.
The incident was first detailed by West Seattle Blog, which reported that officers pursued the suspect on foot through the High Point neighborhood after responding to the break-in call. No injuries were reported in connection with the incident, according to the same report.
Why Police Moved So Fast
The rapid police response tracks with Washington’s mandatory arrest statute, which requires officers to make a warrantless arrest once they establish probable cause that a qualifying domestic violence offense occurred within the preceding four hours, according to Skagit Valley Law. That obligation applies regardless of whether the victim asks officers not to make an arrest, per Will & Will.
The alleged break-in itself carries serious legal exposure. Attempted residential burglary is classified as a Class B felony under Washington law, carrying maximum penalties of up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine, as outlined by Black & Askerov. The statute applies when someone unlawfully enters or attempts to enter a dwelling with intent to commit a crime inside…