Coffee and Donuts

          It sounds like a scene from a bad comedy, but it’s not.  As many may already know, a citizen snapped a picture of a Washington State Patrol car parked in a handicap spot outside a Starbucks shop in Oak Harbor.  The trooper was inside apparently having coffee and pastries.  The officer claims he didn’t notice the handicap parking sign that is clearly visible in the picture.  I don’t know about you, but the “I didn’t see the sign defense” has never worked for me.  A spokesman for the patrol, Sgt. J.J. Gunderson stated the trooper in question is, “absolutely horrified and embarrassed that this took place.”  I don’t think so.  I think the trooper is horrified and embarrassed that his boss found out.  

          The WSP also states that the trooper will not have to pay the $250 fine.  The patrol’s logic appears to be that under RCW 46.63.030 an officer must see the infraction or the infraction must be caught on an automated traffic safety camera or a photo enforcement system, not a citizen’s camera.  This sounds to me like legal maneuvering.  The fact is we have two eyewitnesses, Ricky Fain, who took the picture and the patrol officer who parked the vehicle.  

          Those who are given great authority bear great responsibility.  When the officer parked in that spot he knew he was violating the law and he knew everyone in the vicinity would see it.  What he foolishly did not count on was that his actions would be recorded and reported.  By his actions he showed a disregard for the law he has sworn to uphold, the uniform he wore and the public he has sworn to protect.  He may believe that the uniform, badge and gun makes him above the law, but it does not.  Whatever punishment the Washington State Patrol sees fit to confer he should accept, but beyond that, he should do the right thing and issue himself the ticket he deserves.