Jim West :: A Spokesman-Review Investigative Report

Readers shared their opinions and observations on the Jim West stories between May 5 and May 10, when we closed this forum to new comments.

The Jimmy Marks "Gypsy Curse" on the city of Spokane is alive and well!

Pat Forster

I don't care that West might be gay or bisexual. I do care that he's a hypocrite.

I am sickened by this story, but glad that the paper had the guts to expose Jim West for what he is. I don't care about someones sexuality, the thing that gets to me is when children are involved. I really do think that he needs to be removed from office and hope that the people will do just that. Being in the valley, we of course have no vote, but the people within the city limits need to speak up and do the right thing.

How sad for the gay community that a prominent figure has done his part in perpetuating the myth that gay men are often sexual predators. Let's not focus on his sexual orientation, but rather the allegation that he has sexually abused children.

Beware the politician who fervently tries to inject government regulations into consenting adult's private lives like Jim West did for so long. Too often they are projecting their own demons. West should go, and hypocritical elected officials who foist their own morality should be very concerned today.

HOW SORDID.....DIRT LAUNDRY, DEVIATE BEHAVIOR, UNNATURAL ACTS, YOUNG BOYS, WHAT A ROLE MODEL! WHATS HE THINKING?
DONT WORRY MR. WEST...YOU HAVE EVERY RIGHT TO THE ABOVE UNDER OUR CONSTUTUTION....BUT YOU STINK.

BOB

West has abused the office of the Mayor...promising jobs with the quid pro quo of sex...taking gifts...using taxpayers equipment for private purposes...resign or be recalled!

Straight, gay, bi-sexual who cares. Pedophile we care. Am I to believe the Spokesman Review didn't have any idea about this little tidbit when they endorsed this guy for mayor. PLEASE.

Mayor West needs to resign along with his deputy, Lynch. Bragdon and Odenthal should go, too. Maybe they are not all guilty of malfeasance or cover-up, but I think the lovely city of Spokane needs a fresh start, and that can only be achieved by removing the top leaders in the mayor's office and the police department.

I am completely outraged by these reports. We have to listen constantly to the Religious Right Republicans claiming that they represent "family values" and the Bible and here is one of their own poster boys living a despicable secret life. Republicans are hypocrites. I don't ever want to hear another word about liberals being immoral. Mayor West has already cut millions of dollars from City services and people say what a great job he is doing. Good kids can't do their homework in the library because he has shut them down with budget cuts but he can run around town with high school boys to have his fun. I am sickened by this. He should be removed from office immediately.

I commend the Spokesman-Review for the apparently careful investigation they have done on Mr. West and the courage they displayed in bringing his abuses to light. His sexual orientation is of no concern. His abuse of children is of major concern. His abuse of power for personal favors certainly is. His hypocrisy in blatantly spearheading ridiculous legislation to deny rights to gay people is abominable. It's time to leave office, Mr. West. I hope that you will be replaced with someone whose personal life and public policies are congruent.

Jim West should resign immediately. Brad Benson, John Ahern and every other right wing Republican politician who perpetuated the lie of Jim West as a protector of family values by supporting and praising the policies of this dangerous man should also resign. Who else are these hypocritical moralists protecting?

Isn't it amazing how these allegations surfaced just days after the last of the parking garage lawsuits settled. I guess the paper needs something else to beat the city with.

The sad thing is that we have been duped by Mr. West's duplicity and that his projection of a false image is probably not unique among politicians. I am far to the left of the Rebublican agenda, but it is pathetic that people lie to make themselves appear attractive to that ilk and that someone, including his supporters, did not question his integrity sooner. Finally, on a personal level, this man must not know what he is, what he believes or what his principals are. He's clearly lived and told so many lies, he's totally without meaningful substance. I wish people could be honest and still get elected.

What an unbelievable turn of events--the S-R apparently has essentially found out what so many have known about West apparently being gay or bi- or whatever sells papers. Since the S-R endorsed him to be elected, and they seem to have been investigating for a long time, what is the significance of this surfacing now that the settlement has been made with Betsy Cowles about her playpen downtown? Think the S-R would have preferred the suits to go on and on and on. CAn not agree with any pedophile, but also can't believe felons as we are hearing today. West has done a good job politically and I don't care who he is with as long as they are consenting adults and that is what the last 3 years at least seems to have been. Where does this place the Executive Director of Boy Scouts and fellow city council member Brad Stark since he was endorsed by West for election?

Just because he's a Republican doesn't mean that he represents all of that party. Just like Michael Moore doesn't represent the view of every member of the Democratic party. To believe otherwise is emotional overreaction.

It is all a big misunderstanding. He typed one letter wrong and now they are after him. He thought he was logged onto "haysex.com" not "gaysex.com". He thought he was corresponding with lonely farming women.

Dear Spokane,
In the height of ironic timing, I would like to tell you of my meeting of 7 April with Mayor West. The topic: Convincing State Legislature to pass a law requiring all current and future employees/volunteers of all organizations (regardless of size) that cater to minor children get a Criminal Background Check (including finger prints) submitted thru the WSP to the FBI. Cost: $18.00 Turnaround time 2-3 business days.
In short, his response was "What we've got now is good enough. I dont't have time for this, I've got a city to run." And, "I won't give you a letter endorsing the concept (that you/I could take to all the Spokane area legislators".
I knew going in he was a former Scoutmaster and fundraiser for the Boy Scouts. In person, I felt truly in the presence of evil.
Resign, Mr West.

The most troubling issue surrounding these allegations has to do with the statute of limitations. Priests, sheriffs deputies, and now a mayor have been accused of sexual molestation that occurred years ago and legally the victim has no recourse other than financial as the statute of limitations seems to have run out on most of these cases. Our lawmakers need to address this issue and make sex crimes equivalent to that of murder in that there can be no statute of limitations imposed on sex offenses. We need to encourage our elected officials to start now in making laws addressing this issue. Whether it be a state law or federal, people like Lisa Brown or Maria Cantwell need to take the lead and remove any restrictions on the prosecution of sex offenders no matter how long ago the offenses occurred. If Mayor West is guilty of molestation, he can't be brought to trial as those crimes took place too long ago. Please encourage your lawmakers to address this issue so we can properly prosecute those who are guilty of a most heinous crime.

So much for Spokane as the "All-American City". For the first time I am ashamed to say I live in Spokane. West finally has to act like a man and resign immediately.

Why are gay conservatives so tragic? Where are the positive role models for young libertarian-leaning gays like me?

Another self-righteous ring-wing hypocrite is exposed. Let there be light!

How disgusting! This man is a total creep. Do as I say, not as I do unto your children. West is a pig.

What a sick monkey. West tries to use his cancer as a sympathy getter in his email to the city staff. This guy is pathological. Resign or recall now!

A couple of drug addicts accuse him of abuse, and he's a pedophile? Liberals seem to want to believe everything drug addicts have to say.

There is no reason to care who or what he does--he was evaluated on his merits when he was elected--and that hasn't changed.

I came out as a gay man in the mid 70's in Spokane. Often times in the gay bars if there were altercations or harrassment, the COPS wouldn't even respond. Now I know what some fo them were doing and awho they were doing! Shame Mayor West, RESIGN!

Wow. It's true, a person's private life is their own, but not when their private life is brought to work with them. Access gay porn on your own time Mayor West. It's a crying shame if you did molest children. You need to resign and you need serious mental help. Aren't you married? Leave town and never come back.

Anonymous is just another word for coward. I don't feel this is a liberal or whatever issue. It is an issue of someone who has no integrity or morals and abuses his power as "your" public servant. I believe much is changed including the preconception of his merits.

I belive that the public should ask for a full background check on Mr. West. Private or Public, makes no difference, we need to prove or disprove what he may have done. If he is guilty, set a trial date. I would be pleased if justice was served either way. Ousting him from office shopld be an entirely seperate issue.

Jim West claims he has taken to prayer since his cancer and asks that he be prayed for. Well Jim I am praying for you that you have the guts to resign and save our city from anymore humliation and what taxpayer dollars this will or has already cost us.

I am not from Spokane. I just came across this story by accident while searching the internet for a place to stay during a summer visit. I hope he resigns or gets run out of town. I understand it's none of my business, but allowing him to stay in office appears to the outside world as condoning his actions. We think our child may be good enough to skate in the 2007 USFS Championships. I don't know how long his term is, but I certainly don't him hanging around the arena looking for dates during our event. I am going to make sure the USFS knows about him so they can decide what to do also. It's a shame because it looks like a nice area.

This makes me ill. Jim West should resign immediately. Being gay is one thing raping is another. If this was out, no one would have voted for him. Spokane people need to get him to step down, the sooner the better.

There's nothing wrong with being gay, but being an utter hypocrite, that's something else again. But the child molestation charges are worst of all. I hope Jim West resigns or is kicked out.

Some readers don't like the credibility of drug addicts and convicted felons. Maybe they were set on that path as young boys when an adult male role model molested them. Where there is smoke there is fire and Jim West is/was a likely pedophile. This is NOTHING against being gay or lesbian. It is all about the abuse of power and using
the guise of being an adult to manipulate children. What he does or doesn';t do with consenting adults of any sex or orientation in none of our business. I commend the S/R for taking 3 years to investigate this.

For the good of the City of Spokane and the entire area, Mr West should step down and cooperate fully with any additional investigations. It is sad that someone can be a fairly good leader in some ways and still be a probably pedophile. Frankly, it makes me wonder about many people now that "seem" respectful...

We must protect our children and the weakest among us. I for one believe the 2 men and their allegations. It takes courage to come out as it has to be very humiliating. I encourage others who have been abused by Mr West or anyone else to make it public and start with the healing.

God Bless Spokane. Boy, do we need it

After reading this I first thought of Dino Rossi who stood by then Senator West as he went through cancer treatment at Fred Hutchinson in Seattle. (Catholic) Senator Rossi put him up in his home and helped check him into the facility without knowing(we assume) of the disgusting secret life of this falsely moral legislator. I have often heard that those that spout the most hatred towards gays are those that fear they themselves are gay but are fighting it. Therego the secret double life and abuse of the powerless. Targeting troubled kids as easy marks that had no one watching them enough is dispicable beyond words. And we had this guy write our state budget and run the senate?

Hey, these allegations are only about sex. It's time to MOVE ON. Isn't that what Democrats said when Clinton was revealed to be a harasser, perjurer, obstructor of justice, and rapist? Seriously, I think it's an abuse of office in both cases. And if Mr. West does has a history of rape, he should be prosecuted if it's not too late.

Once again the City of Spokane has been embarrassed!! This story is indeed disturbing to read. I wont be a bit superised to see this on the national news circuit Friday morning. Mayor Jim West should resign.

The allegations of sexual molestation--and the accusers' crediblity--aside, isn't this the man who thought Lowry should be impeached for a sexual liasion? Isn't this the man who has been virulently anti-gay, anti-Aids education, and pro-marriage? The hypocrisy shames West, and it shames Spokane. Please resign Mr. West.

Everyone is so quick to pass judgement on a man who has served his community for most of his life, believing two "career criminals" and a rag of a newspaper who is all about selling papers more than it is to reporting solid facts. If Mr. West did do the things he is accused of doing than shame on him and he should step down but if a couple of drug addicts are looking for their 15 minutes of fame and a newspaper decided to destroy a respected mans professional and personal reputation without focusing on facts but fiction than shame on them!!!!!

In an email to city employees—which reads more like like a “whoops I made a mistake!” than a sincere apology—Mayor West uses the predictable “attack the victim” defense, referring to the sexual molestation victims as “convicted felons.”

It is important that everyone remember that these men were once young boys who were emotionally and physically violated, events that very likely set them on the path that has led them to where they are.

Then, in an attempt to mitigate his egregious behavior and distort the truth, Mayor West said the following: “I have always considered a person’s private life private and have respected others in this way.” The facts belie that statement. During his long and ignominious tenure in the legislature, West “the homophobe” invaded and denigrated the private lives of tens of thousands of gay Washingtonians, painting them as second-class citizens and criminals.

Finally, in what can only be described as a pathetic play for pity, West writes, “Since my cancer I’ve taken to prayer and believe it has healing power. Please pray for me...”

My prayer is that West resign, that he be brought to justice, and that the citizens of Spokane—indeed all America—be spared from any further shame.

Come on everyone! I see so many here jumping to conclusions on this! How do we even know this is totally true? And even if it is, lets look at all the good Mayor West has done for this city.

We could have a mayor like Vera Katz from Portland who has done a great job of destroying that city.

Lets all sit back and relax and let the man do his job (which he is doing an AWESOME job).

Lets all grow up and get out of this high school mindset everyone seems to have.

I thought our constitution states we are all innocent until proven guilty. Dont you think Mayor West deserves the same?

Tom Grant is either laughing right now, or angered he didn't investigate the story...

I hadn't realized that my city was destroyed by former Mayor Katz! I don't see a lot of Portlanders moving to Spokane. However, I am a young and ambitious man, and I would love to get to know Mayor West. I am not gay, mind you, but I can give your fine mayor what he wants. It is good to see Spokane in the news.

I have no political opinion one way or another about West, but I have a few things to say about the SR's fast-and-loose approach to journalism. By using a surrogate to post as an 18-year-old on the Internet, the SR has violated a sacred canon of journalism: You NEVER lie or misrepresent yourself to get a story. Never. What's even more galling is that they didn't need to: They already had bona fide sex surfers confirming the mayor was on gay.com and engaged in homosexuality. In the journalism world, misrepresenting yourself is every bit as bad as plagiarism, accepting money from the government and simply making stuff up. I've been a reporter myself for nearly two decades, and I've never seen or heard of a mainstream newspaper do something like this with the full knowledge of top editors. It makes life that much more difficult for honest reporters who already have a tough time convincing readers and sources that they're on the up and up. That was my first reaction when I read this. Then I read it again--every last word in every last sidebar and transcript, and I think the SR should be crossing their fingers that this doesn't blow up in their faces. The pedophilia angle is far, far from proven, and there's no indication that the SR checked out some pretty incredible assertions from Galliher, not the least of which is this tale about trying to stop the killing of an informant. Also troubled that the SR didn't post an unedited transcript of the Galliher interview, as they did with the mayor. Makes me wonder what ended up on the cutting room floor. In short, this package gets thin at critical junctures and isn't nearly powerful enough to support the lede, which states unequivocally that West has used his position to cultivate sexual relations with boys for 25 years. That's a he-said-she-said proposition, and the tone of this piece leaves me with the impression that the SR was more interested in getting a pelt than they were in practicing good, responsible journalism.

I see "disgustedjournalist"'s point. Journalism should be more like what we see on CNN. 24/7 coverage of the Runaway Bride or Where is Shandra Levi or Terri Schiavo: How Can We Revive a Dead Woman and Smear Her Husband. Now that is real journalism. No, SR just didn't go far enough in cinching this Jim West story. It doesn't really matter anyway. All Jim needs to do is say he's found Jesus, repent, and all those good Christians who voted for him will fall all over themselves to vote for him again. They will pray and have vigils and quite possibly he could be recommended for sainthood. We could then have another 25 years of molestation, hypocritical laws passed to ban anything and everything gay, and everything will be back to normal.

Come on everyone! I see so many here jumping to conclusions on this! How do we even know this is totally true?

There are more layers to this story than in a Greek pastry.

Even if only what he has confessed to is true, he needs to step down.

No amount of good works excuses or exonerates a 50-something year-old man who uses all of his political muscle in public to marginalize, criminalize and demonize gays, only to turn around and use the same muscle to cultivate for sex impressionable boys of the youngest possible legal age for consent.

This man's M.O., his preocupation with 18 year-olds, the totality of his actions, are typical sexual predator behavior.

Michael,

West may be doing an AWESOME job, but the transcripts of his on-line chats with "moto-broak" is enough justification for resignation or recall. That is pitiful!

Just a reminder that even liberal Portland (and Oregon) will deal with liberal sexual predation -- Neil Goldschmidt's despicable behavior the case in point. Of course, Neil couldn't turn to Jesus or Republican false-piety. He did have the good grace to disappear from public life.

I have a difficult time believing the allegations of molestation. After all, the timing is a bit, shall we say, fishy. If this allegeded molestation DID occur, why was it not disclosed in 1981, when Hahn committed suicide? Why wait 24 years, until a man is in a powerful position, to come forward?

Additionally, I agree with West's assertation that his private life is private, and I fully applaud his coming out of the closet, albeit forced, after all this time. However, what I cannot and will not tolerate is the hypocrisy that he is flaunting in our faces.

West has not been convicted of any crime, and we need to remember that. However, he DID cross the line when he offered public jobs for private favors. When he did that, he made his private life fair game. And his stance over the years on sex in general and homosexuality in particular makes everything he says, does, or stands for questionable now.

Mr. West, although I feel for you, you need to step down. You say you have Spokane's best interests in mind. Then let us have a leader we can trust when it comes to the issues in which he purports to believe.

Did anyone else notice the coincidence in the online chat transcript and West's interview, in which he asserted that he had met more than 1,300 boys at the Boy Scouts camp and had taught many of them to swim. In the chat transcript, he talks about how best to approach other young men to see if they might be "interested" in sexual contact and advises Moto-Brock that "horsing around" in a pool is a great way to cop a feel, then pretend it was an accident if he protests. That's classic pedophile behavior. It's easy to dismiss complaints that are 20 to 30 years old, but the fact is that most pedophiles do not confine their activities to one or two victims. If these activities did indeed occur, my guess is victims are going to start coming out of the woodwork.

I think it's a sad day for Jim West. Coming to terms with being gay is the most difficult thing in a person's life. I went through that myself during my college years in Spokane. With all the pressure from the community to conform to the straight life, it's not wonder that Jim West kept his private life so private. I don't condone the actions that he allegedly molested minors, but his sexual orientation should not be used against him in this case.

As for the Spokesman-Review: Shame on you for entrapping Mr. West. Gay.com is one of the only places for gays coming to terms with their sexuality to have an outlet to express themselves and meet others who may be working through the same feelings. I think it's absolutely disgusting that you pose as a gay man for the sole purpose of entrapment and a way to sell more newspapers. Your actions further homophobia in Spokane and give me just another reason to be happy to now be living in Seattle.

Scott,

Either you are delusional, are straight pretending to be gay, or haven’t come to terms with what it means to be gay.

West is the most dangerous and reprehensible form of homosexual. His whole life has been a lie, and he has lashed out against gays in order to conceal his sexuality. The issue here is hypocrisy, his attempts to bash, criminalize, marginalize and demonize gays to protect himself, his political career, his access to power, and all the while doing everything he railed against.

This is not a tortured man who could not come to terms with his true self. It’s a selfish man who wanted everything life had to offer, and was willing to lie, deceive, manipulate, step on other people’s rights, point fingers, accuse, abuse and very likely molest young boys along the way.

His online activity, his interest in 18 year-olds exclusively, the YOUNGEST age able to legally give consent, his adopting a persona, courting, cultivating, all point to a sexual predator.

His claim that he respects people’s private lives is the biggest crock I have ever heard. He spit all over every gay in Washington’s private life, and was vocal and public about it.

He cannot have it both ways, try to destroy gays publicly, and be one privately.

Your sympathy for him is as troubling as his behavior.

George:

Had Jim West been a typical gay-bashing conservative, I would have no sympathy for him whatsoever. I know firsthand that coming to terms with being gay causes some very self-destructive and hateful behavior. When I was in college, I lashed out against gays on campus and spouted the most hateful speech against other gays to cover up and deny the feelings I have for other men. It was a horrible way to live, and in that sense I feel sympathy for Mr. West.

I don't deny that his actions in the past have hurt the gay community. I do realize that his actions come from deep-seated internal homophobia which has been further reinforced by the conservative community around him.

I am shocked and do not know what to say. I am truly sickened and I am sure that Many other of his former employees are as shocked and dismayed as I am. I was a very addimate supporter of Mr. West's for a very long time and had enjoyed working for him during the summers. I never expected this. Things have definately changed.

Scott,

I am a gay man, 44, who had the courage, dignity, self-respect and conviction to come out at 18, in 1979. I endured harrassment, heckling, even violence.

I have known thousands of Jim Wests, men whose cowardice, and, yes, self-hate, but more than anything egotism, drive them to be homophobic bigots, but the sefl-hate is low on the list. His behavior is typical of the kind of spineless, calculating gay man who knows very well he wants to have gay sex, but isn't man enough to be public about it.

Again, I have no sympathy and nothing but contempt for him. If he were a self-hating, repressed gay man who anguished over his sexuality, fought the urges, repressed it, that would be a different story, but this man knew what he liked, prayed on people to achieve it, and attacked gays to deflect attention, not out of a sense of anguish, but because that's what cowards do.

And if you think West wouldn't act, vote, move, or advocate to continue to repress, marginalize, criminalize and demonize you, you're naive. I'm just waiting for the conversion, and the new, born-again Jim West to come out attacking the "depraved, immoral, and godless homosexual lifestyle that Jesus saved him from."

George:

I admire that you had the courage to come out at 18. When I was 18, I came to Spokane from a small town to go to college. I went through counseling to try to get over my feelings for my male friends, but the only thing I needed to get over was my own internalized homophobia. It wasn't until I was 27 and had moved to Portland was I comfortable enough to come out.

You and I did not choose to be gay, but we did choose to come out. Jim West is still wrestling with his own internal demons (and hurting the rest of us in the process). The difference is that I chose to stop telling myself that being gay is wrong, and Mr. West has not.

My hope would be that Mr. West will just finally come to terms and make ammends with the gay community. Unfortunately, I'm afraid, the damage that he's already done is too great.

I have also started a thread in a forum to further discussion from the Spokane gay community. The forum can be found at http://www.outspokane.com

Resign Mr. West! How many days until you cave in or will you just continue your bullish ways and try and 'fix' this? pfftttt!

OUT WITH THE MAYOR!

Does Mayor West and John Morrison have somethings in common? First Morrison is forced out then Mayor West investigation. Something is up!

On the surface, this is bad news. Bad for Mr. West, Bad for Spokane, Bad for its Residents. Especially after Metropolian Mortgage.

In the long-run, hopefully some good may come of this. Perhaps we will become more tolerant of persons with different sexuality than the majority (even if some people personally disapprove of their lifestyle). Perhaps we will be more alert to potential sexual misconduct with children. Perhaps we will question the jounalistic practices of our hometown newspaper. Perhaps we will question extreme xenophobia among our elected officials.

Bottom-line, it is better that we know than don't know. Let's use this as an experience to learn and grow as a community.

Anyone consider that what is coming to light is a seriously organized pedophelia ring? Is it just coincidence that these men were allegedly buggering boys at the same time that Bishop Skylstad was turning a blind eye and deaf ear to the screams of young men in the hands of O'Donnell in his basement at Assumption?

Aren't we innocent until proven guilty? I think the reaction is astounding to allegations. Anybody can allege this conduct. It seems a lot of people are still under the impression that gay men must be pedophiles. There are a number of reasons for these men to make such allegations; any judgment premature to a full investigation is inappropriate. Fundamentalists seem to think they are the only ones with moral righteousness. Please save your judgment until you have proof. Judgment among people of different backgrounds is all too common in America today.

Innocent until proven guilty. Absolutely right. But, that does not mean we shouldn't explore connections.

There are allegations that he's a child molester. I dont care if he is gay or bisexual. By labeling him gay or bisexual at the same time throwing the allegations that he's a child molestor makes it sound like child molestors are gay or bisexual. The important issue that was addressed was that he was interested in 'younger' folks. I think that it's a great thing that the spokesman review did take 2 years to uncover this story. From reading all the articles and knowing about statistics the accusations of molestation is absolutly 98 percent true. A none survivor of this terrible type of abuse would never want to claim that it happened to them....thats why it takes time to be able to talk about it. I thank the two guys that did speak up about their horrible experiences. Jim West is a disgrace to Spokane. THere is no reason why he deserves to be in office as mayor of spokane. He tore apart the name of spokane by his actions 24 years ago. Of course he's going to deny that he did that 24 years ago. if there are two that are speaking now..there are probabably ten thousand others.............you can count on that.
thank you spokesman review for revealing the truth of our mayor and to be very precise and descriptive about this abuse. It gives this type of abuse a voice and recognition that it happens often too much and people put a shame/quiet label around it because nobody wants to hear or talk about it. thats life. this type of abuse NEEDS To stop.

sick

angela

Explore, yes. Most readers seem ready to hang this man based on these allegations. I do not live in Spokane anymore, but I grew up there and am really fond of areas around Spokane. However, the conservative attitude of the city has driven me to larger cities with a more diverse population. I would really like to see the people of Spokane react in a mature constitutional manner about the situation. If Mr. West is proven to be a pedophile, then he should be removed and prosecuted. Gay does not mean pedophile. I just want to wait and let the evidence weigh in before the mayor gets hung.

The allegations are allegations only at this time.

West admits using taxpayer equipment, offering interships, and other enticements in his chats with the false young man (Spokesman Review).

Using taxpayer equipment, jobs for sex, and abusing a position of power are crimes in this state. West has admitted to committing these crimes.

The Mayor of a City should not need a parental warning attached to their conversations or them personally.

West needs to do the right thing, or the people of Spokane should do it for him.

Resign or Recall Now!

This is only the beginning. I have a feeling that this will slowly become a national item both politically and locally. I think that Mayor West's troubles have only begun. I won't be surprised if he resigns in a quick fashion, because the longer he stays, the more problems arise.

Unfortunately, I agree that Mayor West's problems have just begun. I think the mere acknowledgment of his sexual orientation will insure that he will be removed from office.

If the city of Spokane lets this slide under the carpet, shame on us.
The spokesman-review has done a outstanding job of reporting and now I want to see how our city council and the city attorney perform under this pressure to do what is right for Spokane, otherwise many more changes must be made in the next election.

Interesting how if something is spoken then people believe it must be so. People are so ready to believe anything they hear. Some advice my mother gave me a long time ago: Believe nothing you hear and only half of what you see.
Please hold your judgments until he has actually been proven guilty.

The Spokesman Review is a media source. Pedophilia is a crime. There needs to be a criminal investigation. More often than not, there is a lot of bias in media coverage.

Spokane has been disgraced by Jim West. The allegations from the 70's are likely difficult to prove - so we can leave those until lawsuits either implicate or exonerate West.
The current pursuing of 17 & 18 year olds, regardless of gender, by a 54 year old man is truly disturbing. I don’t believe that West has any children of his own so he can not comprehend what a parent of a 17 or 18 year old would think about a 54 year old man seeking a sexual relationship with their precious child. West goes back and forth in referring to the 17 and 18 year olds as either adults, kids, boys, or consenting adult. Which is it Mr. Mayor? Are they boys, adults, kids, or consenting adults? (the various references to the 17 and 18 year olds is from the online chat, the SR interview transcript, and the Mayor’s statement) This is enough that the Mayor should resign immediately.
Then comes the promise of paid internships in his office, gifts, sporting tickets, and linking to the cities website to show off just what a big man he is. How big is he now? Using his position and office to entice children to have sex with him, that definitely is enough for him to resign! If he won’t resign the citizens need to initiate a recall to throw him out of office!
Last thought, do you think that these two documented “chat” relationships were the only two that West has had? Not a chance. He indicates in the online chats that he has hooked up with other boys as well. He is a predator of Spokane’s kids and he is our Mayor!?! How sick is that?

Don't you love this "shoot the messenger" attitude some people have adopted? The S-R did its job ... to report the truth about a matter of PUBLIC interest. Just because some of you would like to keep your heads buried in the sand and not know the awful truth doesn't mean it shouldn't be reported. Now that the allegations are there, they need to be dealt with, not shrouded in a smokescreen of a yellow journalism rant.

Linda,
He has admitted to the conversations on gay.com. Have you read his "chats" with moto-brook or dannyboy? They speak for themselves of the Mayors improper use of his position and office to seduce you kids for sex! There is already a lot of evidence that is available that West has validated in his interview with the SR and in his public statement. The 20 year old allegations definetly need more investigation to confirm West's involvement.

"you kids" was meant to be "young kids". Sorry - typing too fast.

I can't believe that people dont want to believe that he's a pedophile. And i know that its reached to other states in the united states because my friend has been at a conference in D.C. all week and someone came up to him (knowing he was from Spokane) and said , "hey i heard about your mayor, that's f'd up". people already know. People people people people of course you dont want to believe its true. Yes the allegations happened along time ago. MORE PEOPLE NEED TO SUPPORT the survivors that came out and spoke about this.

angela

It's called objectivity, not a "shoot the messenger" attitude. Obviously, this is a very important story and it is serving its purpose to ignite discussion and hopefully spark a real investigation, which is what the media does and is a good thing. I just do not want to bury an innocent person who has done great work in office without definite proof.

Gay.com is a forum for homosexual men, its not an admission to pedophilia. Many may not approve it, but its use is not illegal nor is it necessarily improper. Certain conversations may be improper by a mayor during mayoral duties. However, what the mayor does on his own time is not really my business so long as it is not illegal.

There evidence shows that the Mayor has patterns of having sex with young men and then denying that he is gay. This denial of reality is a characteristic of addicts. I don't trust the word of a mayor that denys the reality that he likes sex with young men. I think a full investigation of the allegations should proceed and if Jim West is guilty of sexually abusing young boys he should be held accountable.
He sounds like Clinton saying I did not have sex with that woman. His own words show that he is not afraid to use his position of power to help him attract young men for sex.
He should face reality and resign his position as mayor.

This is disgusting news about Jim West. The hypocrisy is appalling. The "convicted felons" West refers to, are victims of abuse. It could very well be West's FAULT that they are "convicted felons", as children who are abused frequently turn to drugs and alcohol for self-medication. Sounds like West blames the victims. (Typical of pedophiles and abusers). I would believe the words of the "convicted felons" before I would believe West's denial. Inmates have MUCH to lose when coming forth with accusations such as these. Guards and fellow inmates alike will harass and discriminate against the victims, especially when the abuser is a former Law Enforcement officer.
Add one more name to the growing list of rogue cops, boy scout leaders, priests, politicians, et al, for Spokane, Washington. This city is rife with corruption, (along with Seattle), so nothing is surprising anymore.
Good job, Spokesman-Review, for exposing this corruption.

As the C.A.I., I am amazed that you’re so quick to jump on the "guilty" bandwagon when there are simply allegations on the table. I think it is ignorant to suggest that the mayor has less to lose than the convicted felons in such allegations. Again, I find it sad that people are so quick to hang the mayor before there is concrete proof. It sounds like the coalition for injustice not against injustice.

Every sick SOB in the world is probably headed to Spokane as we speak as they assume everyone here has their head in the sand when it comes to perversion of this nature. The business community here has no balls whatsoever if they continue to gloss over this. Absolutely despicable behavior, not to mention the abuse of power involved. God have mercy on us all. Please.

Sounds like JMM may be one of my "acquaintances" who continually harasses me for opposing and exposing corruption. As a long time citizen of the Spokane area, and a former citizen of Seattle, I find that if the "accused" is "an ordinary citizen", they are automatically presumed guilty, and often "FOUND" guilty via corruption, false testimony, judicial and prosecutorial misconduct and malfeasance. But if a politician or Law Enforcement is accused, "they are innocent until proven guilty".
Say JMM... are you one of the people that reports me for opposing and exposing corruption? Or one of the guys who helped get the Spokesman-Review forum shut down because I posted news articles about corruptLE?

The historical allegations do need further evidence and investigation to hang the guilty label on the Mayor. Guilt by association is OK for the tabloids but not a court room.
As for the gay.com chatting/dating, that shows that West likes and seeks out young "men". While that too is legal it is not something many of his constituents would approve of. Especially if it were their son or daughter that the mayor was pursuing.
Finally, the issue of using his job, office, and the perks that come with the job to entice young men. At one point the Mayor assures motobrook "don't worry, you'll get it" regarding a paid internship position in the Mayors office. That is gross abuse of the office of Mayor.
West was careful in apparently seeking only legal age boys. The allegations from the 70's are virtually impossible to proof with many possible witnesses dead and much evidence no longer available. The abuse of his office is what needs to be investigated to verify the allegations that West himself documented in his gay.com and AOL AIM conversations.

Dear C.A.I.

I have never come to the forum before. I live and practice law in Denver, Colorado and grew up in Spokane. I heard about the story on CNN this morning. I'm not saying that he didn't do it; I’m only suggesting that there needs to be an investigation before we automatically resolve to the decision that he committed these acts of atrocity. If he did, then hell yes, he needs to go. At this point its allegations, why does everyone want to jump to a conclusion. It sounds like you have no faith in the justice system, a system many people do not understand. Like all branches of our government, it is not perfect, but its our system, and like our constitution, I think we are better off to follow protocol and wait until the evidence is all in before we make a conclusion. I recall being told we won the Iraq war a few years ago, look where that stands. Personally attacking me for my opinion and discussion in this room will only serve to discredit you in your discussion. An open forum is a pool of ideas and opinions; I am as free to voice my opinion much in the same way that you’re free to voice yours.

Respectfully,

JMM

And Dear JMM,
You are absolutely correct, I "have no faith in the justice system", as I have witnessed, documented, and reported more corruption and violations of Constitutional Law than you could ever believe. I frequently see corruption rewarded and exalted, rather than corrected or redressed. I hope someday my "faith in the justice system" will be restored, but I doubt it. You "personally attacked" ME, when I stated I would believe the victim's before I would believe West. I have valid reasons to feel that way.
A few years ago, a law was passed that allowed victims of abuse to sue the perpetrator if they filed within 3 years of "memory recall". I'm almost certain "9/11" changed that law (along with other laws that protect victims).
I hope you utilize your skills and knowledge to protect The Constitution, (that is rapidly being destroyed). Good luck with your career.

I hope you folks applauding the SR realize that the SR didn't merely report the news here: they CREATED it. They hired a guy to lie to an individual. Eventually they set a trap for the mayor and he walked into it.

From what I see, the only thing proved so far is that the mayor likes young men (not children). There is no proof whatsoever that the 25-year-old allegations by convicted felons is true.

But we know for sure that the mayor likes 'em young.

Is this really public service journalism? Or is it just sexualized sensationalism?

Either way, it makes Spokane look bad. And not only can you thank Jim west for that. You can than the SR, too.

I'm not sure if it's a more sad commentary on our culture or the homophobic hypocrites in the GOP, but, as any psychologist can tell you, those that protest the most about homosexuality are also the most likely to be latent homosexuals themselves, and sometimes not even latent as in this case. It's sad on our culture because we foster a society whereby people cannot be who they are without hiding it. It's sad on the GOP for beng the loudest cheerleaders in our society for this type of hateful and dishonest culture. We have homophobic homosexuals and where do they find a home? In the GOP, of course.

Unfortunately, I agree that Mayor West's problems have just begun. I think the mere acknowledgment of his sexual orientation will insure that he will be removed from office. - JMM

JMM, I hate to be the first to break the news to you that you're an idiot. This has nothing to do with sexual orientation. It has to do with abuse of young people and the hypocrisy that Jim West represents when he has spent his whole life dreaming up legislation to discriminate against gays and lesbians while at the same time he's having same-sex relations. Mr. West say's he wants to keep his private life "private" while at the same time supporting legislation against gay and lesbians private lives. I suspect the "Inland Empire" is chocked full of hypocritical homophobic right wing Republican Christians, who focus on gays and lesbians because they are self loathing about themselves. Jim West is nothing but a pedophile, not to mention a bully. His whole career has been based on bullying other people. But don't worry JMM, all Jim needs to do is pray for forgiveness and your ilk will be defending everything he does to the very end.

I highly doubt The Spokesman-Review "created" this news, I applaud them for reporting it.
It is perfectly legal for police to lie and "entrap" suspects, why shouldn't investigative reporters be allowed to do the same?
How can ANYONE prove sexual allegations from 25 years prior? In cases like this, it would have to be dependent upon witness testimony. Certainly witnesses lie, but rarely do witnesses humiliate themselves with embarassing testimony as these witnesses are, unless it is the truth.
I just now read of the beating one witness endured at the hands of prison guards. This happens frequently, is reported continuously, but is usually denied and covered-up.
Especially in washington State.
But that is a whole 'nother story...
IMO, West should step down from his position as Mayor, and seek help for pedophilia.

Those that are proclaiming that the SR created this story and they aren't doing a good job would much rather have the news as reported by the majority of the main stream media which absolutely sucks. I applaud the SR for doing what journalists should be doing, investigative journalism and reporting of significant news. Americans have become pea brains, all they apparently want is stories about RunAway Brides, Terry Schiavo, Where is Shandra Levi, etc. I know the right wingers in here don't want anyone reporting real news so they are trying desperately to discredit anything that might expose their hate and hypocrisy. They are even coming in here from out of state. Look at JMM coming from James Dobson Focus on the Family, Colorado.

Tammy - you go girl!

I'm glad that I live on the RIGHT coast. Sounds like there are tooooooo many lefties and gays on the LEFT coast for me to feel comfortable raising my Children there. Every Society will prosper or fall based upon its level of morality and values!

East Coast Scott

Spokane is a great city to live and raise your children. Come on bring them on out!

I think that this is really two stories, not one. There is the story of West's possible criminal behavior in the 1970's. And, completely separate from that, there is the story of his alleged misuse of his position to impress adult young men over the internet, and the hypocritical nature of this behavior given his policy positions.

The problem with combining the two stories, which the Spokesman has for all intents and purposes done by packaging them together under the general title of "sexual misconduct" and releasing them on the same day, is that the first story (the abuse) is about a serious crime, and the second -- while hypocritical and distasteful -- is much less serious. Going on gay.com and chatting with young men is NOT illegal -- even if you're chatting with a so-called computer forensic expert (and how, other than being a very good actor, did his forensic "expertise" come into play here? How is this not just plain old entrapment?) The bottom line is that the public will not make a distinction between the two stories. The Spokesman Review should have anticipated this and taken greater care in the distinctions it drew and the methods it used.

Don't get me wrong ... I'm a gay man and a large part of me is delighted as heck that West's hypocritical behavior is out there for all to see. However, presenting these stories as a package implicitly ties West's current monkey business to the sketchy, horrible, allegations against him dating back 25+ years. In reality, there is no connection between his current behavior and any possible crimes of his past, except in the imagination of a homophobic public. Gay men -- even closeted, hypocritical ones who like younger men -- are not criminals.

It is for the public to make an overall evaluation of Jim West, the man -- I don't think there's much mystery about what that judgment will be, at least for most of us. I know what mine is -- I say throw the bum out. But when I hear half the people in this forum join the editors of the paper in proclaiming loudly that "this is not about his sexual orientation" ... I call BS. The homophobic notion that all gay men are predators is in play here. That's why the Spokesman Review failed to draw clear distinctions between serious crimes and Lewinski-esque internet dalliances and employed deception and entrapment as a means of procuring its story. It is a shame that the paper didn't muster up some actual journalistic restraint so that these two separate, important and disurbing stories might have emerged uncolored by each other and free from the messy splatter of sensationalism and questionable journalistic practice.

Spokane IS a great city to raise your children. Just beware of hidden terrorists in high places.

Spokane is a great city to raise your children

Well if you don't like dirt, good luck finding somewhere to live that doesn't have it, wanting to not have this information published is having your hand stuck in the same sick cookie jar, it's investigative journalism that is our greatest hope of holding public servants accountable, since the vast majority of them do not feel this sense of obligation. As for Mayor West...you better stop hiding behind a wall of privacy, you lost that right when you offered a government job inappropriately and trying to cover up the mess of a lie only makes it bigger, I only hope you drag down all the other culprits who also perpetuate the misuse of their office and/or supported you knowing what you did.

Matt, well said. And I agree that the SR is appealing to the kneejerk homophobia of the public. I think they purposely packaged these stories together to make their own scoop seem more important. In the end, the average guiy on the street will come away with this: the mayor of Spokane is a hypocritical homosexual who molests children. Hypocrite, yes. None of the rest have been proven or even strongly supported.

What is sad is to see gay folks throwing their own principles out the window because the target(this time) happens to be a closeted Republican who has an anti-gay agenda. If the target were a liberal, pro-gay Democrat, I think they';d be singing a different tune.

If the SR's tactics here are acceptable, then they will be duplicated. Next time the target may not be so unlikeable.

It's no wonder many of the business leaders of Spokane support Jim West, he likes hang out with rich people, and if someone likes you because your rich, maybe you get special favors? I think the slim goes beyond the mayors office.

How quick would West be "outed" and viciously attacked if he were a Democrat? Just wondering, after seeing most Democrats fall under immediate attack over the smallest accusations.
I have a son that was a boy scout, we lived in the Spokane valley, and I have valid concerns over this news. I admire S-R for reporting it, I feel it is their DUTY to keep the public informed.
I do not care about anyone's "sexual affairs", until it involves children.
I do care about the corruption and decay of our Law Enforcement and Politicians, those we pay to "protect and serve", and "lead our great city".
My hopes are that the Spokesman-Review will continue reporting corruption and abuse of powers.
"Better late than never".

Assuming Jim West were tried and found guilty of preying on minor children wouldn't that make him a Level 111 sex offender? Level 111 being the ones most likely to reoffend. Why should position protect such a threat to the community?

Good point, Clare! If West were tried and convicted, he would become a "convicted felon", as he refers (judgementally and hatefully) to his alleged victims, (in attempts to discredit them). What if he had found a minor on the internet that was lying about his age?
West is a threat to this community, IMO, and should resign or be removed IMMEDIATELY.

I am a mental health professional and have provided treatment to juvenile boys and girls for years. I have also heard their stories of personal sexual maltreatment. I have read hundreds of files of gruesome depiction of sexual abuse of children. After reading Robert Galliher's letter describing his sexual, emotional terrorization at the hands of the late Mr. Hahn and apparently Jim West, I am left with a sadness for these men, who as boys, had to endure this torment. The actions Mr. Galliher describes are textbook grooming and emotional/physical abuse which an adult sexual abuser uses to engage victims. The truth is, many, many children, especially boys, DO NOT TELL ANYONE! The strategy of the offender is to insure they don't. Little children really must believe grownups to survive. To use your role as law enforcement officer, boy scout leader etc., adds an element of fear and cruelty hard to imagine. The credibility of the men coming forward should not be a focus. Experts will tell you who doubt, that all sexual abusers carefully select vulnerable vicitms. Sexual orientation is a non-issue here...hideous sexual maltreatment of innocent boys is! To Mr. Galliher and all those harmed by these men, my heart goes out to you and your families. I hope you find hope and renewal in your life as you step out in courage and face those who robbed you of your innocence. I beg our community to rally and insist Mr. West resign immediatly! These allegations and his engagement of other teen boys, is appalling. Get out of my town Mr. West!

So. Allegations from 20+ years ago in a deposition (not a criminal complaint or suit against Mr. West), and an ethically questionable sting operation that raise mild quasi-nepotism issues.
Mighty thin stuff.

hey,
Coalition Against Injustice. I really thank you for comming and saying your comments on here. everything that you said needed to be said.

good for you

angela

That is what Mr. West gets!!!

All ye who indulge in homosexual behavior shall befall this fate. Masquerading as a man of high moral character is sad.

You cannot run, and ye cannot hide from the mighty hand of YAWEH!!!

I am very glad I do not live in Spokane anymore. HOWEVER, I read Al French's statement in support of Mayor West and I have to wonder what he is thinking. Al French has his own ethical and potentially criminal problems (arising from giving advice to dredge the Spokane River for one of his clients in Post Falls) -- maybe that is why he is backing another ethically/criminally challenged individual. I guess like people do run with each other.

My RIGHT coast is the same side as WEST'S side. So is on the LEFT side?
The EAST?

Thank you, Angela! Unfortunately, I meet lots of resistance when I oppose corruption and misconduct. What America needs is more genuinely concerned citizens like yourself, who prefer the truth over "sugar-coated lies", even when the truth hurts.
Mayor West owes Spokane, the Sheriff's Office, the Boy Scouts, and everyone else, an apology for his hypocrisy and abuse, before he steps down. And he should step down while he can. I have a "gut-feeling" that more abuse will come to light in the near future.
Meanwhile, the guards that beat one of the witnesses, should also be thoroughly investigated before being removed.

Wow - first you guys have WTO riots and now this.

Next thing you know Howard Shultz will be announcing layoffs. But you have a beautiful city nonetheless. Space Needle is awesome.

The fact that West, a 54-year-old man, is into 18 year-old boys tells me he likely committed the molestation that these two men claim. What on earth does West have in common with an 18-year-old, other than wanting sex? He was also close friends with another man (Hahn) accused of molestation. Cooincidence? I agree a man is innocent until proven guilty so let's investigate his activites until we all remove reasonable doubts from our minds. I personally know of three women West dated so that he could cover up his sexual orientation. The things he said to Moto-Brock are humiliating for our city and come at a time when Spokane was just beginning to be recognized as the fine city we are so proud of. West - your political career is over and Spokane is ready for you to take up residence elsewhere.

A recall needs to be initiated immediately. I am not familiar with the process on a mayoral level here in Spokane so if someone knows, let's hear about it so we can move forward. That's the very least that needs to be done. This sicko is most likely a pedophile from all that has been reported so criminal proceedings need to take place ASAP. I sincerely hope that his political power and influence don't get him out of this mess. He's already been caught threatening someone and prosecuted for it. He's abused power for many many years. Offering internships for sex... Let's rally together Spokane and let justice prevail!

We had a mayor down here who sat outside a woman's house repeatedly and claimed he was delivering newspapers. Then he charged a trip to New York on the City expense. And all from a Mormon Republican.

The good end to this unfortunate spectacle was that we elected an honest, unassuming forward-thinking person to lead our city after Mayor Coles was recalled.

Spokane can move on from this. But you've got to get that guy out of there

The time has come to get a recall petition started since Mayor West has declared he doesn't intend to step down. People who compare him to Clinton are mistaken in that Bill Clinton did not recruit Monica from some website. Anyone who fails to understand why Galliher and Grant did not come forward sooner has never been up against a dishonest cop who is willing to lie about you to earn brownie points or cover his own behind. I have been, so I understand why they might have hesitated to accuse him or defend themselves. They probably thought they would never be believed since West was a cop and a Boy Scout leader besides. Anybody who knows the rules on getting a recall petition started or has already started the process, please e-mail me at cashme327@comcast.net.

I agree that the Mayor is to be presumed innocent of criminal charges unless he is found guilty in a court of law, but all the same, it is well-known that many gay men prefer young boys. Maybe the Mayor can be a board member of NAMBLA, now that he has resigned from other boards.

I was shocked to see the head lines. I still have not beena ble to bring myself to read the paper. I just stack them in a corner until I can. I don't know that Jim West did anything wrong with the boys. On the other hand, I don't know that he didn't. I am an avid supporter of Jim West and he has helped me with legal issues in the pass no matter if he was here in town or at the state capitol. I do know that he has done a great deal for the common good of the people of Washington and Spokane in particular. I am not a supporter of same sex relationships or abusing children/youths. For me, it is religiously and morally wrong. And for whatever reason this might go to a court situation, I pray that I am not called to be part of the jury. The call is too great for someone like myself.

West may have some personal issues to sort out,(don't we all) but the guy has been working hard for this state and this city for a long time. As for the criminal accusations 1)Prove it. West may be bi and entirely innocent of all these things. If so Who cares if he's bi. 2)Consider the source... these guys may (perhaps probably) could have some alterior motives. Please consider that some people would do anything for a)a buck b)for payback c)or just simply to garner some favor from other parties.
One other thought to consider:who has West made mad? All this could have come out long ago..... Senates Races, Mayors races, Many previous opportunities why now? No big story needed just a blip on the radar screen would have taken off all on it's own. Why now??/ Whose mad? For whom is the timing of this information the most convenient?
Last but not least a pessimistic note must must be included: If West can be proved to have been abusive to kids. No punishment will be harsh enough as far as I am concerned. I have two little ones and I cannot express the lengths I would go to............

But a story does not prove anything other ones ability to think and write. Lots of holes in this one boys and girls. Prayers for all.

To Mayor Jim West, The Spokesman-Review, and the residents of the City of Spokane:
For those of you who are not personally acquainted with me, my name is Ken Zigler. I am a senior at Gonzaga University. I share much in common with Mayor West. I, too, attended Grant Elementary school. This school is the most ethnically diverse school in Spokane and I have fond memories of my time there. While I was there, I wrote former Spokane Mayor Sheri Bernard advocating the use of seat belts in buses and on a separate occasion advocated for the crossing light which now hangs over the intersection of 8th and Perry. The Community Colleges of Spokane and Criminal Justice Program at Gonzaga University are also the sources of education for both me and Mr. West. I have been politically involved at all stages of life. I was class president at Grant Elementary, a representative of Lakeside High School at the Chase Youth Commission’s Teen Advisory Counsel, and the Men’s President of Spokane Falls Community College. Mayor West is also a natural leader. The first time I heard his name, I was in sixth grade at Bryant Elementary School, which I attended once-a-week for the “gifted” program. Jeff West was a classmate of mine and was proud of his Uncle Jim, who was running for the U.S. House of Representatives during that same year (1992).
Perhaps it is this similar background that led me into the Mayor’s Office late in the fall of 2004. I was given the opportunity to be an intern in the Mayor’s Office. The Spokesman-Review quoted Mr. West, “Any kid could be an intern in my office…” This is true. I was not offered the position because I met the Mayor on gay.com. I am not a homosexual. I wore my wedding ring during my interview and displayed a photo of my wife and my son on my desk. I was treated fairly. I was never treated in any manner which would suggest that the position came with stipulations and I was never approached by Mr. West. I simply dressed properly, with a $7 suit from Goodwill, and had much pride instilled in me from that position. It made me feel important to sit with the leaders of the City of Spokane while they discussed the business of the various city departments and it was certainly a valuable educational experience. I heard Mayor West joke with his Cabinet. I heard him brace them from the troubles of the budget shortfall. Although I disagreed with a number of his decisions, and I would not choose his lifestyle, I do admire Mr. West because he is a strong, competent mayor. He put the needs of our city before his own medical needs. He promptly returned to the office following major surgery, not taking the justification of cancer to be a lame duck. He is not concerned for his own well being and happiness. He boldly took the blame of years of Spokane’s mishandling of funds, knowing that someday, someone would have to do it.
He also spoke highly of The Spokesman-Review. “We want to keep them on our side,” he advised to his cabinet during one of my sit-ins, referring to the local media. While I was at Spokane Falls Community College, I took a Journalism course and was told that our local paper is respectable. I took that statement at face value and am re-evaluating my position following the May 5th 2005 “Investigative Report” alleging sexual misconduct in the Mayor’s Office. In this report, The Spokesman-Review, reported their 2-year investigation and findings. They posed as a 17-year old gay male who was about to turn 18. The transcripts of this conversation reveal that Mr. West offered a happy birthday and a gift, pending his 18th, and ended the conversation. Spokane’s only newspaper should not have pursued, instigated, or printed this story. It is entrapped gossip and should be reserved for tabloid magazines, not the pages of an otherwise respectable media source. Perhaps most disturbing, this newspaper’s editor endorsed Mr. West publicly while other staff member’s concurrently conducted this investigation. In my opinion, this “investigation” is more of an imitation of tabloid-style reporting
As I previously stated, I was an intern in the Mayor’s Office during the winter of 2004-05. I transferred my energy from the Mayor’s Office to the Spokane Municipal Court Ad-Hoc meetings in February. I was never given the impression that I was expected fit into any category of sexuality, nor given any indication that, as a young male, the Mayor was sexually attracted to me. His public life has overlapped into his private life as a result of an insignificant investigation which sought to create a disturbance in our community. We as a community should support our elected leadership and discourage The Spokesman-Review to continue this style of investigations which lead only to distrust and controversy. I believe an apology would be appropriate. We need to stand together as a community, not divided into an ethical battle of homosexual rights v. traditional family values

I agree that it is entirely possible that Jim West may be innocent. I think that if he were not looking for man-love on the internet and entrapped my the Spokesman then people would be reserving judgement. ... The fact that these men are convicted felons should at least say something.

Why believe West is Gay? And what is with this word "hypocrit"? We know he dislikes Gays. We know he has liver cancer. Liver cancer is often caused by hepatitis, which is common to people engageing in the behaviours the boys now men accuse West of commiting against them. We know West pursues young people over people his own age which also tends to uphold the opinion of his victems that he is a pedophile. So stop calling him a hypocrit, he hates Gay people but he isn't one.

Get out of town Mr. West, and take the pedophile priests with you.

M, I have no idea what point you are trying to make other than proving you are an idiot.

and to Ken Zigler, we are sorry that Mr. West didn't find you sexually attractive and maybe that proves he is totally innocent, but let's wait and see. It's noble that you've come here on your own free will and have written several pages in your defense of Mr. West. You've covered your bases so well that, well we here don't have anything more to discuss on this topic I guess. You've got it covered. You say: " We need to stand together as a community, not divided into an ethical battle of homosexual rights v. traditional family values". Now why would we not want to talk about this ethical battle? Mr. West spent his whole public career in an ethical battle of homosexual rights vs traditional family values. All his legislation centered around criminalizing sex. Both for heterosexuals and homosexuals. This is his legacy to society. Ken, you are protesting a little to much, you need to rethink your strategy here.

So he stomps on the freedom of gay people & tows the right wing line of family values. Who is this guy & what is happening to the grand old party I grew up in? If we're not careful, there will be nothing left of the true Republican Party. It's being highjacked by the radical right & "christian" zealots. My father is probably spinning in his grave over these Westonian developments. I join others who agree it is time to boot the rascal out of office.

There are lots of stories in this "package" the Spokesman-Review newspaper put together- everything but a look inward at the controversial and unethical entrapment practice they used. But other newspapers are talking about it if the Spokesman won't - both Seattle papers and others. West is a hypocrite and so is the Spokesman-Review. See this link to an ethics-in-journalism take you won't find in the local newspaper.
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2002265185_westethics06m.html

I read in one of the reports that a victim DID report the abuse in the 70's but the police denied it, ignored it, and basically covered it up. Most abused children never tell anyone, ever, for fear of retaliation and shame. Most pedophiles go to their graves in denial. Many pedophiles were abused themselves as children.
I'm relieved to hear West has resigned from the Boy Scouts and Morning Star Boys Ranch.
I'm certain with over 20,000 innocent Americans wrongfully convicted each year in The U.S., West will get a fair trial, IF he is charged with crimes.
"Innocent until proven guilty" is a privelege only the wealthy and influential share. Lucky for West.

Terry, I see your point, you've noted that "it is well-known that many gay men prefer young boys". Those darn gays, they like those young boys JUST like how those darn heterosexuals like those young girls! How coincidental. Have you noticed how there are always those young girls in all the main stream magazines, television commercials, and bill boards? Those heterosexuals just really get off on those young girls. It's so darn prevalent, most of us hardly notice that those heterosexuals like young girls. Thanks for pointing out how much gays are like heterosexuals in that way. Do you have any other enlightening observations that you'd like to share from your pea brain?

"Journalism?", here, I'll discuss entrapment... if it's good enough for law enforcement, why wouldn't it be good enough for investigative reporters? It's not like the reporters threatened, coerced, or "made deals" with witnesses. The public has every right to know the truth, our children are vulnerable.
Those inmates, whose stories corroborate, were children when they were abused. That's outrageous.
They have never even begun the healing process UNTIL they came out with the truth. (However many years it took, since the abuse).
Meanwhile, while victims attempt to heal in prison or wherever, West will get proper medical treatment, love and prayers from all of his supporters, every legal protection available, preferential treatment, and continue his happy life. If he is innocent, that's wonderful, but it must mean mistaken identity. I wonder who the abusers were? Or were there any? Such confusion...
IF West is charged, let's be sure he gets a FAIR and JUST trial.
(Hopefully, like the victims always had throughout their broken, "criminal" lives).

As a recovering molested child, I am tired of hearing these two victims labeled as "convicted felons" because of their drug use. Did anyone not read the accounts that West gave the boys marijuana and beer to lossen them up before he molested them? Therapy will tell you that 99% of molested children use and/or abuse alcohol and drugs. These kids are not felons - they are grown men trying to come to grips with the atrocities posed upon them at a young age. I am not saying West did molest them because he deserves a fair trial, however, if he did, that would explain the "convicted felons" story of drug abuse following the agony of molestation. If we are going to pray as a community, let's pray for all parties involved.

bshm, I'm sorry to hear you are in so much anguish over your beloved friend Jim West's "troubles". These are trying times for right wing homophobic Republicans such as you. I see that your religious and moral values don't allow you to support abuse of children. I would guess that if you weren't religious and moral you would support child abuse, am I correct in that understanding? So many religions such as Focus On The Family support child abuse as a form of child rearing. Glad to hear you aren't a follower of James Dobson. It's also wonderful to hear you say "I am not a supporter of same sex relationships". Your religion and morals again help you determine your stand on that. Should we then put your religious views into law? What if someone else had a different religious view? Would we need to put their view into law also? Or would your religious view be the one chosen? I'm glad to hear your friend Jim West provided you with all his assistance "in town and at the state capitol". Jim is indeed a homophobe's dream. He has spent his entire public life working for you to have yours and his religious views codified into law. Lots of his initiatives have been about sex, criminalizing sex, you know private stuff. I can see why you'd be in anguish now. Who will do your dirty work for you now?

My father was the former city editor of the Spokeman Review during the time of the South Hills Rapist. At the tie The Chronicle did not want to print stories about the rapes because (he) was the rapist's father and Managing Editor of The Chronicle. I applaud the SR for bringing this story to our attention. The Spokane Community should be proud that our paper wants to keep us informed. I am not saying that West is guilty of all charges reported but it begs for a thorough invesitagtion into the political career of West - we deserve the facts. SR - please keep investigating and bring us the facts!

Yes... please keep investigating and bringing us the facts... and if you need to hang out in gay chat rooms and masquerade as a handsome young gay stud then so be it!!!

I live in Everett, but from 1996-2002, I proudly called Spokane my home. Just wanted to say, "Thank you" for printing this story, and taking the time to investigate the facts to make sure it wasn't a smear campaign. It disgusts me to hear Mr. West refer to the 2 victims as, "two known felons" in the news over here. How the press and the public don't just say, "Well, duh, you monster, you don't molest a child and expect them to grow up to their full potential!" is beyond me.
The unspoken vicitms in this whole tragedy are the honest and law abiding citizens who are law enforcement and Boy Scout leaders. My husband is a den leader, and he makes sure that every event has 2-deep leadership to avoid anything horrific happening to the boys. It is now Scout law, but I am afraid it came too little, too late for the victims of Mr. West.
Being a survivor of sexual abuse myself, I admire the courage of the 2 men who spoke out against the 'threats' of a souless man, Mr, West. I hope and pray they now find peace. Whether or not Mr. West admits to it, they can now rest knowing they spoke out, and they have been heard. They are believed. It is what I will pray for them, for it is the greatest freedom in knowing the truth has been heard.
God bless them, and may God have mercy on Jim West.
Helen Ann Olsen
Everett, WA

Know what a 54 year old gay man that go's after 18 year old guys for pure sex is called? "A sexual predator" Now, if you are anyone of the above and a regular Joe on the street, no one takes notice. Give this Joe a title like governor, mayor, police chief, politician, then Joe is gonna have a real problem trying to shake this off and say "hey, it's just my thing...I like em young..this is my private life..back off"...Only trouble is, sex news travels fast and Joe is gonna make it all over the country on talk shows, and the national media. When they are done with him, Joe is gonna resign from office.

MY COMMENTS ABOVE WERE NOT ALL SUBMITTED CORRECTLY BY THIS WEB PAGE-BELOW IS THE ACTUAL....

Know what a 54 year old straight man that go's after 18 year old chicks for pure sex is called? " A sexual predator"

I'm just really in shock. I'm greatful for this forum, as I am just learning why my dad's friend, David Hahn, killed himself. David taught Red Cross with him. For so many years, we didn't know why the suicide happened. I'm glad my dad didn't live to see this! So glad. Now that that mystery is solved, let's bring a close to this horrible chapter in Spokane's history. Let's show our citizens that we won't tolerate people using their "power" to manipulate and abuse people. Mr. West isn't dealing with a full deck.

Spokane's government leaders, business leaders, and citizens are an embarassment to Washington State and the United States. "Lets Sweep It Under The Rug" is apparently Spokane's new city motto.

Thelatest revelation that Jim West propositioned a 15-year-old LC student who was also the son of the people who produced the Local Planet shows how reckless West was in his pursuit of young males. That sort of behavior is not only reprehensible, it could have left him wide open to blackmail, or exposure in the media a lot sooner had the Planet had the money to investigate him. This didn't happen over 20 years ago, either. That chickenhawk should be recalled. He has already given grounds to do so from having violated the city ethics code, and possibly state law as well.

I am a recent resident to Spokane (and Washington state) and have no allegiance to any politician here so I think can look at this in a fairly independent way. The new allegations in today's paper are especially disturbing. I think it's going to become increasingly hard for West and his supporters to dismiss charges of his being a sexual predator in the 70s, as well as more recently. Moreover, what he has actually admitted to seems more than enough to remove him from office. As a mother, the thought of my high school senior being wooed by the mayor with promises of gifts and an internship is sickening, whether the boy is 18 or not. And the admitted use of the city computer for these activities is unconscionable. Mayor West, for the good of the city you profess to love, resign.

Mayor West and The Republican Party have been acting like an Organized Criminal Syndicate. These rumor and allegations have been around for decades
but the Republicans have always circled their wagons and protected their turf at the expensive of some of their youngest and most vulnerable constituents.

The Republican Party needs to be investigated under the RICO laws because they knew and allowed this criminal behavior to continue for decades all for political gain. This is not a political party but another cult of greed and corruption.

The Roman Catholic Church used the same tactics to protect their priest from the same abuse charges and it took some very aggressive county prosecutors that finally said enough is enough and exposed the entire cabal of abuse.

I thought Journalism was dead in America, Kudos to the Statesman-Review.

The Chief of Police peddles his influence in an attempt to get a lighter sentence for a drug dealer and there is total silence by the media and politicians. Now West is in trouble and his opponents and Spokesman Review come out of the woodwork. West's private life is his own. If he broke the law or played around on our nickel then fire his ass. Just quit kicking him when he is down.

HELLO! To those in public office who are supporting Jim West. Are you missing one very obvious point? If we had found out a public official, or any other 54 year old man was trolling the internet in order to lure a high school girl for sex....would you still feel they were both "consenting adults" just because she was 18? As the parent of high school age boys, I am appalled by Jim West's obvious attempt to barely stay "under the radar", by having sex with the youngest age group he can legally have sex with, without being legally labeled a rapist. An 18 year old is still very young and impressionable. And, I think it is an affront to Gay people, that he still won't consider himself gay. He doesn't argue with the title "Bisexual", which basically just means he really has no boundaries to who he is willing to be with. If this was just about a man in office coming out as gay, and looking for relationship with other mature men, I believe the citizens of Spokane would stand behind him, but this is much more complicated than that. It's time for him to step down. We need to show our young people that we value them more than he does.

Maybe the S.R. should investigate all our city leaders this way....Oh yeah, there wouldn't be anybody left to guard the hen house full of lies. Thank S.R. for the great reporting!!

I second the thought Journalism was dead in America, Kudos to the Statesman-Review.2

Some argue that it is his private life and that the pedophilia allegations have not been proved.

Remove the pedophilia allegations. With everything else he admits: trolling gay chat rooms for dates, having sex with 18-year-old "men," and offering as enticements the trappings of the Office of the Mayor, I am sorry, that is enough for me. He needs to resign.

A man his age, with the power and authority that he wields has NO business stalking teenagers for sex. Is it legal activity? Yes. But "leagality" only instructs us as to what the outside edge of extreme behavior is permissable. For most common-sense people, the limits of legality are beyond their personal limit of tolerance.

The "Private life" argument is Hog Wash, too! There is no such thing! Especially for a prominent politician who has set himself up as the Grand Poobah of Virtuosity. As a society, if we had delved deeper into the private lives of the Church leader in Kansas and the aspiring Republican staffer in Seattle, we possibly could have prevented some of the carnage by the BTK Killer and Ted Bundy.

As for the argument that West has been good for the City so just leave him alone. Garbage! No one man is bigger than the city. And some predatory behavior is beyond the pale and should not be mitigated by other commendable activity.

Now we have two more accusations by credible sources. (Apparently if you are a felon, nothing you say can be believed.) But how do you respond to two men who have no seedy backgrounds? Do West proponents trash everyone who comes forward to tell their story?

In another prominent case, proponents of Michael Jackson would have us believe that boys sleeping with a 40ish-year-old man is acceptable. I am sorry, but I do not agree. And in this case with West, it is the same. Yes. It is legal for a 55-year-old man to have sex with 18-year-old boys, but I will not tolerate it. The Mayor should resign FOR THE GOOD OF THE CITY. He has breached the trust and tolerance of the good citizens of this community. It is time to step aside and let another qualified person with better judgement assume the office.

As I stated earlier, (yesterday), "I have a gut-feeling more abuse will come to light in the near future". I didn't realize the "future" was this near. How sad!
Imagine the healing that could begin, if only West would apologize to his (alleged) victims. West himself could begin healing, for he is a sick man. I feel sorry for him, but more sorry for his (alleged) victims. I suspect West was abused as a child, possibly David Hahn, as well.
False accusations are devastating, but when two or more witnesses come forward, that counts as truth or fact in a court of law. Many prisoners have been convicted on less damning testimony. In fact, many innocent prisoners have been convicted by testimony of one or two false witnesses, in spite of exculpatory evidence. No one complains about our tax-dollars being wasted on wrongful convictions, yet so many are here "worried" about West being falsely accused. I cannot believe so many witnesses share the same st

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