State of Washington v. Scott Michael Williams

¶1 CrR 8.3(b) authorizes dismissal of criminal charges based on arbitrary state action when there has been prejudice to the accused. Criminal charges against Scott Williams were dismissed under this rule after the superior court determined the State’s decision to switch venues prejudiced Mr. Williams by forcing him to choose between effective assistance of counsel and the right to a speedy trial. Because we disagree with the superior court’s conclusion that the State’s venue decision was arbitrary, we reverse.

FACTS

¶2 Mr. Williams was arrested in Adams County after allegedly leading police on…