Notorious animal abuser arrested after cutting off ankle monitor, escaping for a week

David Williford, a convicted animal abuser and child sex offender, was arrested on May 12 following a week-long escape from home arrest. Just six days after being sentenced to home confinement, he cut off his ankle monitor on May 5 and fled the North Admiral neighborhood of West Seattle. A multi-agency manhunt ensued after authorities responded to reports of his disappearance. On May 12, deputies conducted a welfare check at High Steel Bridge, where Williford was found climbing beneath the bridge. He was reportedly in a mental health crisis and initially uncooperative, but after approximately 30 minutes of negotiations, he surrendered.

Williford was taken to Mason General Hospital for a mental health evaluation before being transferred to jail on an outstanding warrant for Escape from Community Custody. His history includes six counts of animal abuse and charges for child rape and molestation, highlighting a troubling pattern of criminal behavior. The swift response by law enforcement in apprehending him underscores the seriousness of his offenses.