RICHLAND, Wash. - Washington State Trooper Sarah Clasen appeared in court today following her arrest for DUI vehicular homicide. She was released on her own recognizance after the hearing.
Richland Police and State Patrol reported that Clasen was off duty and driving her personal car when she collided with a motorcycle, resulting in the death of 20-year-old Jhoser Sanchez.
Clasen's court appearance took place via Zoom before Judge Diana Ruff at the Benton County Justice Center. She had been held for 72 hours in Benton County Jail before her release.
During the hearing, the prosecution argued against the original probable cause for the 72-hour hold, which Judge Ruff upheld. However, due to Clasen's involvement in local law enforcement, the prosecution will not handle the case.
"Based on her involvement in local law enforcement, we will not be prosecuting this case. My office will not be seeking a special prosecutor. I've made multiple phone calls this morning to identify a special prosecutor. I anticipate that that will be resolved within the next day or so. But I do want this court to know that we believe that we need to recuse ourselves based on our connection with the State Patrol," stated a representative from the prosecution.
The judge ruled that Clasen must use an ignition interlock or alcohol monitoring bracelet when operating a vehicle following her release.
Clasen is expected to return to court on March 12 at 8:30 a.m. for her arraignment to hear her formal charges.
To watch the full-length press conference, you can watch it here.
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