Judge reduces photo enforcement penalty for Kirkland speed violation

The Lake Forest Park Court meeting on May 19, 2025, focused on several cases involving traffic violations, particularly those related to photo enforcement in school zones. One notable discussion involved a defendant who contested a speeding ticket, arguing that the penalty seemed excessive for a minor infraction that did not endanger anyone.

The court acknowledged the concerns raised by the defendant regarding the nature of the violation. The judge clarified that the ticket was issued for exceeding the normal posted speed limit of 25 miles per hour, rather than during active school zone hours when the speed limit drops to 20 miles per hour. After reviewing the case, the judge decided to reduce the penalty from the original amount to $85, recognizing the context of the violation.

The court also confirmed that an updated invoice would be sent to the defendant, ensuring that all details were accurate. This case highlights the court's approach to handling minor traffic violations with consideration for the circumstances involved.

In addition to this case, the meeting included other traffic-related discussions, including a separate case involving a Scoboxone violation. The judge expressed willingness to hear the defendant's arguments, indicating a fair and open process for addressing such violations.

Overall, the meeting underscored the court's commitment to balancing enforcement with fairness, particularly in cases involving minor infractions. Further proceedings will continue to address the remaining cases on the docket.