Seattle, WA – KIRO Newsradio hosts Gee Scott and Ursula Reutin responded to recent comments made by independent journalist Jonathan Choe regarding his arrest in Las Vegas. Choe, known for his coverage of Seattle issues, admitted the experience changed his perspective on policing.

Choe's Arrest and Initial Reaction

Jonathan Choe was arrested in Las Vegas for jaywalking while covering a “No Kings” protest. He described being strip-searched and spending over 12 hours in jail alongside individuals accused of more serious crimes, including DUI and domestic violence. Choe initially criticized the arresting officer, stating they were “on a power trip.”

Scott and Reutin's Commentary

Gee Scott highlighted Choe’s statement, “I’m still pro police, but for the first time in my life, I now know what over policing and a power trip looks like.” Scott expressed his satisfaction that Choe had reached this realization, noting that firsthand experience can be more impactful than simply hearing about such issues.

“Jonathan, I’m glad you see it now,” Scott said. “There’s a lot of things that happen that people only read or hear about, and they still don’t get it.” Ursula Reutin added that it often takes personal experience for individuals to truly understand these issues, stating, “Unfortunately for some, it takes having it happen to themselves before they would ever believe it.”

Las Vegas Policing and Potential Lessons

Scott pointed out the strict nature of policing in Las Vegas, expressing he wasn’t surprised by Choe’s arrest for a minor offense like jaywalking. He hoped the incident would serve as a learning experience.

“In Las Vegas, this is what people don’t understand. They are very, very strict,” Scott explained. “They will get you and nab you.” He also expressed concern for those without the resources to navigate the legal system, stating, “Sometimes people get arrested who don’t have the means, and sometimes they might get into the system and stay in the system.”

Acknowledging Choe's Admission

Scott reiterated his appreciation for Choe’s willingness to publicly acknowledge his changed perspective. He emphasized the importance of listening to personal accounts and recognizing the potential for abuse of power within law enforcement. “Again, I’m taking this time to give Jonathan Choe a shoutout for actually coming out here and admitting these things,” Scott concluded.