Homeless Man Who Charged Me with a Bat Found Guilty
View at XWishing Him the Best
The man who tried to take my head off with a baseball bat in downtown Seattle pleaded guilty to 4th Degree Assault. Jeffrey McMillan served 31 days in jail and is now on probation. He apologized and I shook his hand in court, wishing him nothing but the best.
Mental Health Treatment up to Probation Officer
McMillan was facing up to a year in jail along with fines before this plea deal.
Meanwhile, it appears McMillan will seek work and housing with the controversial Downtown Emergency Service Center.
DESC’s failed “Housing First” and “harm reduction” policies attract extremely problematic individuals that could drag McMillan back down into the gutter. I would argue that Mr. McMillan should be placed outside of the temptations of downtown Seattle.
During my victim impact statement, I urged the court to require mental health treatment for the 47-year-old. But the judge said that would be up to his probation officer. The goal is restoration and redemption for Mr. McMillan so he can live the remainder of his life with meaning and purpose.
Several Missed Court Appearances
This case has taken more than a year to resolve since McMillan kept missing court appearances. But he was finally able to face justice after recently being picked up on a bench warrant.
Meanwhile, McMillan is considered “indigent” or homeless.
Original Incident
The initial incident happened back in March of 2023, at the corner of 3rd Ave & James St. It’s a hot spot for crime, drug dealing, and all kinds of madness. It’s right next to DESC’s the Morrison, a homeless shelter, and other low-income housing.
SPD Blotter
I made the SPD Blotter. (Pictured in the article is a full barrel Mizuno aluminum bat.)
Suspect Arrested for Threatening Victim with a Baseball Bat Downtown – SPD Blotter (seattle.gov)
National News Coverage
The story got national news coverage by several outlets.
Fake Address
Look at the address McMillan gave Seattle Police officers. “999 Homeless Ave, Everett WA. 98201.” Of course I had to look it up. It does not exist. But it is funny.
Criminal History
Back in 2006, McMillan was convicted on a domestic violence charge for using a belt to whip the mother of his two children.
Graphic Details
According to the court documents, McMillan agreed to baby sit the kids, but was triggered by something his ex-girlfriend said. He proceeded to whip her with a belt, right in front of his child.
Found Guilty
Assault in the third degree-domestic violence.
Recording in Court
In case you are wondering, the judge is the one who ultimately decides if media members get to record in court. As a compromise, the judge asked me to blur McMillan’s face at the request of the public defender.
This is happening more often to media members in King County and Seattle courts.
Anti-Harassment Order
I want to thank City Attorney Ann Davison and her team of prosecutors for sticking with this case until the end. Davison’s office also helped me get this Anti-Harassment Order which is in play for the next two years.
Cheering Him On
And just to be clear, I have forgiven Mr. McMillan. He had a contrite spirit in court and accepted responsibility. I believe in restoration and will cheer him on from a distance. He also has kids who need a father present in their lives. Only time will tell if he chooses to take advantage of this opportunity.
