In brief: Stuckart announces plan to seek re-election

Spokane City Council President Ben Stuckart has decided to run for re-election, ending months of speculation that he would challenge Mayor David Condon for his office.

“I’ve done a lot of reflection,” Stuckart said. “But I like being on the legislative side. The council has asserted itself and got a lot done.”

Stuckart said he and Condon had a “healthy tension” and that the city has accomplished a lot under their leadership. Still, he wouldn’t go so far as to endorse Condon’s re-election.

No one has officially announced they will challenge Condon or Stuckart.

Nicholas Deshais

Witnesses’ fast actions aided Moscow manhunt

Newly released court documents about Saturday’s shootings in Moscow indicate that witnesses played a key role in helping police find the man suspected of killing three people and injuring a fourth.

John Lee, 29, killed his mother, his landlord and the manager of Arby’s, according to authorities. A witness at the Arby’s told police that a man came into the restaurant and asked to speak to the manager, Belinda Niebuhr. Another witness heard the shooter ask Niebuhr, “Do you remember me?” Witnesses said he pulled out a pistol and began shooting. None of the witnesses knew Lee but they provided police descriptions of the shooter.

A witness outside Arby’s took 11 pictures on her cellphone of Lee’s Honda Fit leaving the restaurant. Another witness provided police a license plate number.

With descriptions of the shooter, his car and license plate, a Pullman police officer stationed specifically to catch the shooter was able to spot the Honda Fit. After a 24-mile chase, police, deputies and troopers apprehended him.

Jonathan Brunt

Attorney Beggs chosen as ombudsman adviser

A local attorney who has pushed city leaders for stronger police oversight has been selected to provide legal advice to Spokane’s new ombudsman commission.

Breean Beggs, who lost a bid for Spokane County prosecutor in November, was selected by the commission in a unanimous vote on Wednesday, said commission chairwoman Rachel Dolezal.

Beggs was selected over former Spokane Mayor Dennis Hession and Stanley Schwartz, who has represented many local governments.

Dolezal said the commission was impressed by all the finalists, but Beggs’ knowledge on the topic – as well as his low bid – stood out.

Beggs said he submitted a proposal to charge $195 an hour.

“I did it because it’s for the public and it’s something I care about,” he said.

Jonathan Brunt