SPOKANE, Wash. --- Law enforcement warned the community Wednesday about the release of a sexually violent predator into the area.
David McCuistion, 55, was found guilty in 1993 of rape in the third degree, as well as third degree assault, according to a joint release from Spokane County Sheriff's Office and Spokane Police Department. A judge granted McCuistion release in Pierce County, and allowed him to live at the 300 block of West 2nd in Spokane.
This, against the objections of the Washington State Attorney General’s Office, Washington State Department of Social and Health Services and Washington State Department of Corrections, according to the press release.
Spokane County Sheriff Ozzie Knezovich told KREM 2 the area is not equipped to handle a violent sex offender. He said McCuistion is the first one that has been released into the area. Knezovich said McCuistion's release set a "precedent," and Spokane can expect to get two more violence sex offenders in the next three months.
"I'm a firm believer that there are some crimes you only get one shot at and at some point society should have the right to make sure you never commit that crime again. Mr. McCuistion is that type of individual," said Knezovich.
While in prison, documents said the court ordered that McCuistion be held at the Special Commitment Center on McNeil Island. That is a facility where sexually violent offenders are sent after they complete their sentences, but are deemed to dangerous to be released into the community. The Sheriff believes the decision to release him came down to the judge.
"I'm gonna say that this is probably one of the most egregious things I've seen a judge do and it's a good thing I think he's retiring," said Knezovich
The Sheriff worries McCuistion's release to Spokane will set a new precedent. This also has the Sheriff worried about what will happen in 2017 when Kevin Coe, the South Hill rapist's, case comes up for review.
McCuiston will be required to register as a sex offender with SCSO in addition to other ordered requirements of release and monitoring by the Department of Corrections.
McCuiston is not wanted by law enforcement; Officials said they released his information to inform the public. There will be a public safety forum for crime prevention on Thursday, October 6, at 6:00 p.m. at the Northeast Community Center located at 4001 North Cook Street. Mayor Condon, members of the City Council, SPD and other agencies will serve as panelists to share information and answer questions.