Seattle hires two rangers to curb crime at parks

In an effort to curb crime, Seattle has hired two park rangers to patrol Cal Anderson Park and Occidental Square full-time.

“They’re present, they can keep an eye on the park, they can settle small disputes,” explained Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn.

The mayor said the decision was made after “several high-profile incidents of violence” in Seattle parks.

“We heard from the community that this was an issue, that people weren’t feeling safe or able to fully utilize these parks,” said McGinn.

He is also requesting Seattle citizens keep an eye out and report any disturbance or crime to police.

Funding for the new rangers will come from underspent Seattle Parks and Recreation operating budget dollars.

“They can be boots on the ground in the park, spend more time than we can,” said Jim Pugel, Seattle interim police chief. “They get to know the people who are regular park users, and those who live around, regardless of what they’re doing in the park. They can build those relationships.”

The new park rangers will be on duty at the parks by the end of June. Meanwhile, police say they will continue with emphasis patrols at Cal Anderson and Occidental. Parks employees will work overtime “to create a safer atmosphere in these parks as well as others.”