Community Outrage Over Commissioner Parker and Judge Basden

Recently, our coverage has focused heavily on unfolding events at the Clallam County Superior Court. Before detailing the latest community response, here is a recap of the significant allegations and reports that have led to this moment:

1. Court Commissioner Brian Parker Accused of Stalking in Port Angeles; Arrested by Everett Police for Felony Perjury

2. Brian Parker Accused of “Spitting” On Someone Near Clallam County Courthouse

3. Was Basden Aware of Parker’s Alleged Misconduct?

4. Judge Basden Appointed His Close Personal Friend to Represent Fisher in Upcoming Murder Trial

5. Judge Basden Attacks Press as “Cyberbullies” Amidst Growing Scandal

6. Higher Courts Frequently Reject Judge Basden’s Rulings

7. Fisher Murder Trial Pushed to February 9 as Attorney Wolfley Prepares

8. Perjury Parker Update: Additional County Emails + Bar Association Emails

9. Deadly Decisions: Basden Rulings Preceded Kidnapping, Murder, and Child’s Death

Photo by Don Pace

On January 29, community members gathered in front of the Clallam County Courthouse to express their outrage regarding Judge Basden, Commissioner Parker, and what is perceived as a “good ol’ boy” justice system.

The public perception of this systemic corruption appears to be a significant and growing problem in Clallam County.

The Handmaids also made an appearance, demonstrating the protest’s focus on treatment of women and vulnerable populations within the court system.

Photo by Don Pace

Photo by Don Pace

Good Ol’ Boy Confrontation

The tension at the event escalated when a local Port Angeles family law attorney verbally confronted the protestors. This attorney, who is married to a deputy clerk of the court and is a former president of the Clallam County Bar Association, attempted to defend the court during the exchange.

For many in attendance, this incident served as a real-time example of the very good ol’ boy justice system they were protesting. Where a local attorney with deep ties to the court infrastructure attempted to disrupt first amendment expression to defend the institution’s perceived lack of integrity.

Photo by Don Pace

Protesting is a classic example of first amendment expression in response to an injustice within the government.

As the county looks toward the delayed Fisher murder trial on February 9, the atmosphere is tense. With higher courts already frequently rejecting Judge Basden’s rulings, the local citizenry has now joined the chorus of disapproval.