Information sheet and resources on the controversial less restriction alternative (LRA) housing for sexually violent predators near Enumclaw

This webpage will be updated when new information becomes available.

Message from Rep. Drew Stokesbary and Rep. Eric Robertson | 31st Legislative District

We learned about the controversial new group home for sexually violent predators near Enumclaw in late January 2023 – after the facility opened. Like many of our constituents, we were surprised. We strongly oppose this group home or any similar homes and are doing everything we can to shut them down.

Since learning of this issue, we have:

  • Requested answers from the Inslee Administration – including his Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) and Department of Corrections (DOC).
  • Asked DSHS to shut the group home down.
  • Attended a town hall meeting at Wabash Church on February 9, 2023.
  • Respond to the ongoing concerns of our constituents.
  • Engage with the media.

On this webpage, you will find:

  • Local and statewide media coverage on the issue.
  • Our letters to Keven Bovenkamp, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Social and Health Services Behavioral Health.
  • Proposed legislation in the 2023 legislative session.
  • How you can participate in the legislative process.
  • The definition of a sexually violent predator.
  • The definition of less restrictive alternative housing.
  • Information on DSHS and its Behavioral Health Administration.
  • Information on DOC and a Community Webinar on less restrictive alternatives.

In the news

Letters to Kevin Bovenkamp, Assistant Secretary Department of Social and Health Services Behavioral Health

  • On February 2, 2023, we sent our first letter.
  • On February 10, 2023, we sent our second letter.

Proposed legislation during the 2023 legislative session

We have signed on as co-sponsors to the following House bills:

  • House Bill 1734/Senate Bill 5544 would ensure adequate notice is provided to local communities when DSHS contracts with a housing provider for individuals qualifying for a less restrictive alternative placement.
  • House Bill 1751 would require DSHS to notify the Superior Court in any county where a conditional release and transition facility is considered and shall consider the Superior Court’s recommendation on the facility siting before entering into any contract; notify the Superior Court in any county where a community transition facility is proposed for additional bed capacity; and consider the recommendations from the Superior Court in any county where a correctional facility is proposed on equitable distribution.
  • House Bill 1813 would establish a moratorium on the siting and use of secure community transition facilities.

Participating in the legislative process

This webpage has a video and step-by-step instructions on how to comment on bills; testify in person; testify remotely; note your position for the legislative record; and submit written testimony.

Definition of a sexually violent predator

According to the Washington State Office of the Attorney General, Washington law defines a sexually violent predator as any person:

  • Who has been convicted of or charged with a crime of sexual violence; and
  • Who suffers from a mental abnormality or personality disorder which makes the person likely to engage in predatory acts of sexual violence if not confined in a secure facility.

Definition of a less restrictive alternative (LRA)

According to DSHS:

  • A less restrictive alternative (LRA) is outpatient treatment provided to an individual who meets the criteria for commitment but is not residing in a facility providing inpatient treatment. If the court finds that the individual meets the criteria for commitment, the court can either authorize the commitment of the individual for inpatient treatment or for a less restrictive alternative treatment. Release under a less restrictive alternative is subject to conditions set by the court.
  • If the professional in charge of the outpatient treatment program or a Designated Mental Health Professional (DMHP) determines that an individual is failing to adhere to the conditions of the court for a less restrictive alternative treatment or conditions for the release of if there is a deterioration in functioning, the individual can be taken into custody and transported to an inpatient evaluation and treatment facility. The DMHP must then file a petition with the court of revocation of less restrictive alternative treatment.

Inslee Administration | State government