Defense claims prosecutors 'colluded' with ICE in case of man charged with killing trooper

Raul Benitez-Santana, charged with vehicular homicide for allegedly killing Washington state trooper Christopher Gadd while driving over 100 mph, has had his trial postponed as the court reviews a defense motion to dismiss the case. The defense claims that prosecutors violated Washington's sanctuary laws by communicating with ICE about Benitez-Santana's immigration status, which they argue has prejudiced the potential jury pool. This communication allegedly involved a legal assistant from the Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney's Office who contacted ICE about placing a detainer on Benitez-Santana shortly after his arrest. The defense describes this as "outrageous government misconduct," asserting that such actions were unnecessary and harmful. Benitez-Santana was in the U.

S. illegally at the time of the incident, and the defense contends that the publicity surrounding his immigration status has unfairly influenced public perception. The trial was scheduled to begin on Thursday, but the last-minute motion has prompted the court to take additional time for consideration. The outcome of this motion could significantly impact the proceedings and the legal landscape regarding sanctuary laws in Washington. As the court deliberates, the defense is preparing for further arguments regarding the legality of the prosecution's actions.