Attorney General Nick Brown has addressed recent protests at the University of Washington, emphasizing concerns about safety and property damage. In a statement, Brown remarked on the situation, noting that his office has been in consultation with the university regarding the events.
"Our office has been closely monitoring the disturbing events at the University of Washington this week, in consultation with our client, the University," he stated. He pointed out that there was "substantial damage to public property and threats to the overall safety of the university community."
Brown expressed gratitude for law enforcement's actions: "I am thankful that those responsible were arrested and, if found guilty, they should be held accountable." He also underscored his support for lawful protest: "I fully and always support people’s right to protest and to express their views. Indeed it is foundational to our democracy."
However, he stressed that safety is paramount: "But everyone has a right to be safe on campus and UW must enforce the law."
The Attorney General's Office in Washington acts as legal counsel for state agencies while also serving its citizens by enforcing various laws related to consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental issues. It prosecutes cases involving elder abuse and Medicaid fraud across most counties in Washington.