Your trusted source for local Federal Way, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The Federal Way Police Department has received $150,000 for a gun buyback and safe giveaway program, funded by a lawsuit against Federal Way Discount Guns for illegal sales of high-capacity magazines. This initiative, part of a broader $2 million allocation from the Washington State Attorney General's office, aims to enhance public safety and reduce gun violence in the community.
The article discusses the competition between the NBA and NFL for Christmas Day viewership, highlighting the significance of both leagues. It also covers local sports developments, including Andre Jordan Jr.'s transfer to UCLA and the Todd Beamer wrestling team's first dual win of the season against Decatur, showcasing the local sports scene during the holidays.
Mayor Jim Ferrell and the Federal Way City Council presented over $19,000 in checks to local organizations, including the Senior Center and Multi-Service Center, to support their food bank initiatives during the holiday season. The article also highlights community events such as the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and a mattress recycling event, reflecting the city's commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
The City of Federal Way is initiating an environmental project to restore salmon-friendly streams by replacing a culvert on Redondo Creek. The city council's recent ordinance facilitates land acquisition for this project, which is part of a state initiative to remove barriers to salmon migration, supporting local salmon populations and addressing public safety concerns related to undersized culverts.
Michael Leemoui, a Federal Way man, has pleaded guilty to manslaughter for the 2021 shooting death of 17-year-old Antonio Garcia-Fonseca at a Renton marijuana dispensary. Leemoui, who was a security officer at the time, was initially charged with second-degree murder but faced a hung jury trial. The state recommends a sentence of 114 months, along with restitution and a lifetime no-contact order with the victim's family.
King County is set to build a new Regional Animal Services Shelter to replace the outdated Kent facility, which is over 50 years old. A budget of $19.8 million has been approved for the project, with plans for the new shelter to be located in the south end of King County, likely in Kent Valley. The timeline for the project is still being determined as officials search for a suitable property.
Sound Transit is seeking public feedback on five proposed routes for the Tacoma Dome Link Extension, which will connect Federal Way to the Tacoma Dome. Public comments are accepted until February 10, 2025. The Sound Transit Board will finalize the preferred route in 2025 after considering public input and completing the Environmental Impact Statement by 2027.
The Federal Way Community Calendar highlights several upcoming holiday events, including the Grand Kyiv Ballet's performance of 'The Nutcracker' featuring prestigious Ukrainian dancers on December 22, the Snowflake Gala on December 21 supporting the African Young Dreamers Empowerment Program, and 'Cookies With Mrs. Claus' on December 19, all aimed at enhancing community engagement during the festive season.
Drug arrests in Federal Way have surged by 402%, according to Mayor Jim Ferrell, who attributes this increase to new legislation that allows police to pursue suspects. Despite the rise in drug-related offenses, overall crime rates in the city have decreased by over 11%, with significant reductions in violent crimes and theft. The mayor emphasizes the importance of addressing drug use to enhance community safety.
Two women have filed tort claims against the Federal Way Public Schools for sexual assaults committed by former teacher Glenfield Watkins at Totem Middle School. The claims, filed on November 18, 2024, seek damages for the abuse endured and raise concerns about student safety and the district's accountability.