Authorities are investigating an incident that left one man dead earlier this week in Snohomish County. The man had an altercation with law enforcement. Some point after arriving on the scene, a taser was used on the man. He became unresponsive and efforts to revive him with CPR were unsuccessful, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The incident was set in motion when a woman phoned 911 alleging domestic violence. The call was made at approximately 9:15 in the Echo Lake area on 12000 block of 221st St. SE. Two sheriff's deputies arrived on the scene within 8 minutes of the call. They proceeded to request backup, using the "help the officer" call which is among the most urgent requests used by law enforcement. 13 agencies responded. 12 minutes after the call for assistance, the altercation had occurred and the man was in custody. At that point, they noticed the man was unresponsive.

The cause of death is yet to be determined by the medical examiner. His identity is yet to be released. The exact nature of the domestic violence dispute and the subsequent call is unclear. The officers involved were placed on paid leave while the incident is being investigated. One deputy had just a year and a half experience, while his colleagues had upwards of a decade of experience. Sgt. John McClure stated that “Detectives worked through the night and into the morning processing the scene, collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses."

The incident has raised eyebrows and been modestly reported on throughout the state. Police 'use of force' on the whole has courted controversy for decades. Although the role of domestic violence seems to be rendered rather slight in this case, it was the reason for the call. The man's death highlights the need to approach domestic violence situations evenhandedly and not with excessive aggression towards the alleged abuser. It is difficult to examine the exact implications of this case without knowing full details, however.

Domestic violence is a very serious charge in the state of Washington. It can carry severe penalties such as fines, community service, counseling, house arrest, jail time and the filing of a restraining order against you and an immense stigma as well. Authorities and prosecutors are quick to pass judgment on those accused of domestic violence, longer before a verdict is reached. If you have been accused of domestic violence in the Seattle area, you will require exceptional and aggressive legal representation to fight your charges. Contact Seattle domestic violence attorney Steve Karimi today for a free consultation.