As juvenile arrests rise in the county, why police say their hands are tied

EVERETT — Marysville Police Chief Erik Scairpon and other police officers say would like to do more to address rising juvenile crime. But he and other law enforcement officers say state legislation enacted in 2021 has resulted in legal roadblocks that hamper officers’ ability to investigate incidents involving juveniles.

Proponents of the bill, including a supervising attorney of adult and youth criminal defense programs, said RCW 13.40.740 can we add link back in?was created to ensure juveniles have access to an attorney during police questioning, detainment and property searches.

“Those are legal standards that law enforcement can and should be familiar with and able to act upon in the course of their regular duties,” Elizabeth Mustin said.

Members of law enforcement acknowledge the l