Everett, Wash. — A shocking incident unfolded in Everett following the release of a 17-year-old suspected gang member, Millorz J. Canales, who was charged with orchestrating a gruesome assault on a rival gang member just weeks after being released from custody. The tragic event occurred on December 17, and has stirred controversy regarding decisions made by the presiding Judge, Veronica Galván, of the King County Superior Court.
Canales and an unidentified accomplice allegedly lured a 14-year-old boy to Lions Park before committing the heinous acts. According to the Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the younger teen was stripped, bound, and brutally attacked, suffering multiple stabbings and other grievous injuries. Despite the severity of the assault, which included disembowelment and a gang-related symbol carved into his body, the victim miraculously survived and sought help from a nearby home.
The release of Canales in early December by Judge Galván, against the advice of the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, has led to intense scrutiny. The judge’s decision came despite Canales having a history of legal troubles, including past convictions for theft and criminal trespass, and allegations of armed robbery linked to gang activities.
These decisions are seen by many as indicative of a broader pattern with Judge Galván, who has been criticized for her leniency towards youthful offenders involved in severe crimes, including those utilizing firearms and engaging in violent thefts. Critics argue that this pattern jeopardizes public safety and undermines the legal system’s role in deterring crime and safeguarding the community.
Judge Galván, appointed to the bench in 2014, has defended her judicial philosophy, suggesting that detention may not be the most effective solution for changing behavior and questioning the efficacy of incarceration. Despite this, her critics maintain that such views, while aiming to reform, potentially neglect the immediate need to protect society from violent individuals.
Amidst the debate on judicial approaches to crime and punishment, the incident in Everett stands as a stark reminder of the possible consequences of premature release when dealing with violent suspects. The broader implications for community safety, legal accountability, and the balance between reform and restraint continue to fuel discussions within and beyond Washington State.
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