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Driver Claims “Right†to Not Identify Himself
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On February 8th, 2016 at approximately 5:30 p.m., Spokane Valley Sheriff’s Deputy Jeff Thurman observed a white Suzuki Aerio travelling southbound on Argonne in the middle lane. The driver, later identified as 41-year-old Kenneth C. Goodman, made a quick and abrupt left turn across the inside lane of travel into a parking lot at Mission and Mullan in Spokane Valley. Goodman failed to use a turn signal prior to making the improper turn and cut off another vehicle, almost causing a collision.
Deputy Thurman pulled in behind the vehicle which was occupied by two males in addition to Goodman. Deputy Thurman contacted Goodman as he exited the vehicle and asked for his driver’s license, registration and proof of insurance. Goodman said he was “travelingâ€, not in commerce and didn’t have identification. Deputy Thurman provided the reason for the traffic stop and advised Goodman he nearly caused a collision. Goodman explained he was arguing with a passenger who insisted he turned into the gas station so he did.
Deputy Thurman told Goodman he wanted to make sure he wasn’t impaired and Goodman need to identify himself (Washington RCW 46.61.020). Goodman said his first name was “Ken†and he didn’t have a last name.
During this time, the two passengers in the vehicle exited and went into the store. A short time later, the males exited the store and started to approach as Deputy Thurman continued to try and identify Goodman. Deputy Thurman asked the males to stay back and initially they did not comply, prompting Deputy Thurman to request emergency backup which arrived within minutes.
Deputy Thurman advised Goodman he needed to properly identify himself or he would be arrested and booked into jail. Goodman argued he was being unlawfully detained per Constitutional Code and did not identify himself. Deputy Thurman advised Goodman he was under arrest and placed him in handcuffs without incident. Goodman was search incident to arrest and a set of keys and sunglasses were removed. Goodman argued he was being kidnapped and Deputy Thurman was committing theft.
After being placed in a patrol car, Goodman provided his full name and date of birth. Deputy Thurman learned Goodman’s driving status was suspended in the 3rd degree.
The vehicle was released to one of the passengers after he provided a valid driver’s license showing he could lawfully drive the vehicle.
Goodman was transported and booked into the Spokane County Jail for Refusal to Give Information or Cooperate with an Officer and DWLS 3rd Degree. He was also issued a notice of infraction for Improper Turn and No Proof of Insurance.
This is the second time in two days a driver has claimed to be a “travelingâ€, implying they didn’t need a driver’s license.
The first incident occurred on February 6th during a traffic stop in Medical Lake. The driver, who was stopped for speeding, was respectful, and provided the required information to Spokane County Sheriff’s Deputy Jesse Depriest but claimed to be a “free traveler†and wanted to talk to the Sheriff. During this incident, the driver was issued a criminal citation for DWLS 3rd Degree and a notice of infraction for Speeding.
Deputy Mark Gregory
Spokane County Sheriff’s Office
Public Information Officer
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