Kirkland Launches Community Court, With A Focus On Compassion

KIRKLAND, WA — Kirkland has opened a new "problem-solving court," designed to assist people convicted of nonviolent offenses instead of handing down a jail sentence, city officials announced Wednesday.

The city designed the new system modeled around successful programs in other municipalities, including neighboring Redmond and others in Spokane, New York, San Diego and Atlanta.

"It makes sense to address the underlying challenges of court participants that may contribute to further criminal activity," said Toby Nixon, a Kirkland city councilmember. "By providing services and increasing community engagement and connection, we can reduce crime."

To qualify for the community court, the accused must have no violent felony convictions within the past five years, pending felony charges or a history of sex offenses. Instead, the court will focus on addressing the underlying cause for low-level, nonviolent crimes, including theft, shoplifting and trespassing.

"Traditionally, punitive action is taken against crimes like these, which does not address why the crime is happening," city officials wrote Wednesday. "At the Community Resource Center, Community Court participants have the opportunity to sign up for services such as drug and alcohol treatment, financial and housing assistance, and employment services. Participants are also often required to perform community service which fosters community engagement."

Kirkland officials said taking the compassionate approach can make all the difference when dealing with crimes that primarily result from mental illness or poverty. John Olson, a Kirkland Municipal Court judge, added that community alternatives help prevent repeat offenses.

"Through the Community Court, we are able to find family and community-oriented solutions," Olson said. "When you help people get the resources they need to be successful, they have a better chance of getting out of the criminal justice system and turning their lives around."

The resource center affiliated with the court also offers access to health care, insurance, education, job training, food, clothing and transportation. Due to coronavirus precautions, the center is running virtually, by phone or Zoom, and is open on Wednesdays between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Learn more about the community court and Kirkland's broader community safety initiative on the city's website.