A Tragedy in Town

Mayor Pestinger's Letter to the Community

The recent death of young Cody Breslin has been a shock and a wake-up call for our community. I have seen various communications about the circumstances around his death and I wanted to take a moment to let you know what I know so far.

Until the Medical Examiner rules what the cause of death was, our police actions are limited. The death occurred at what many in our community call “the farm”. I know that this property has a history of being used for illegal activities. The police chief has shared with me that the police have responded to more than 30 incidents at this place in the last couple of years.

What Has the City Been Doing?

About 2 years ago the city forced the owner of the land to tear down one of the barns because of code violations. We were aware that people were using this barn for shelter and suspected drug use. Our code enforcement officer attended additional training this past year for up-to-date legal information on how to close down properties where illegal activity is common.

Recently the city participated in the successful prosecution of one of the residents of the farm. He is now serving a two year sentence. The City has also been working with Pierce County and the State of Washington to investigate this property for civil violations.

At the March 8th City Council meeting our attorney introduced the draft of an ordinance for the Declaration and Abatement of Chronic Nuisance Properties. To speed things up, the Council will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, March 14th at 7:00 pm. to act on this legislation.

You might also be aware that the Orting Police, with the aid of surrounding Police Departments recently shut down a drug house near the Post Office.

In Conclusion

Illegal drugs are the scourge of our time and have been for the last 60 years. Addiction seems to be at an all-time high. The crimes that are attached to this illegal activity are many and increasing. I am committed to the full investigation and prosecution of illegal drug activity in our town. It will not be easy. It seems our courts and laws tend to favor the perpetrator more than the victims. I will need your assistance in keeping your eyes open and letting our police department know about any illegal drug activity that you might be aware of.