Editor’s note: This letter is in reference to comments made at a Feb. 9 public meeting. For more information, read “Enumclaw residents outraged over group home for violent sex predators”, published Feb. 15.

The King County Sexual Assault Resource Center has had a decades-long relationship with the people of Enumclaw. We made comments at the community notification meeting on Feb. 9 that were disrespectful and failed to recognize your concern, frustration and fear. These comments gave the impression we were blaming victims.

On behalf of all of us at KCSARC, I apologize. These comments do not reflect our philosophy or mission.

We are taking steps to be sure that our messages are always crystal-clear: no sexual assault victim or family is ever to blame, period. As an organization we share your frustration that perpetrators too often are not held to account, and that victim needs and community safety often seem like afterthoughts. We deeply regret exacerbating the confusion and frustration over the decision by the state to place this offender in the community.

KCSARC has always — and will always — stand for victims of sexual assault and will be here for the communities we serve throughout King County.

Mary Ellen Stone

Chief Executive Officer

King County Sexual Assault Resource Center