Governor Ferguson Stops Parole for Triple Murderer After Public Anger
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson has stopped the release of Timothy Pauley, a man convicted of killing three people. Many people were angry when they heard he might be freed after more than 40 years in prison.
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The 1980 Murders at a Tavern
In 1980, Pauley, who was 21 years old, and his friend attacked five workers at the Barn Door Tavern in SeaTac, Washington. They tied up the workers with cords and forced them to take off their clothes.
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They locked two men in a cooler and shot them. Then, they strangled one of the women. Two women survived the attack. Pauley was sent to prison for life for robbery, rape, and murder.
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Parole Decision and Governor’s Action
In 2022, a board decided Pauley had changed. He finished drug and alcohol programs and got treatment for PTSD. The board said he could be released.
At first, Governor Jay Inslee stopped the parole because Pauley did not fully accept responsibility. But before Inslee left office in 2024, he changed his mind and allowed Pauley’s release in 2025.
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Many people, including Bonney Lake Mayor Terry Carter, were upset. Carter said Pauley might move to his town and asked Governor Ferguson to stop the parole.
On March 25, Governor Ferguson canceled the parole. He said Pauley might only show remorse because he wants freedom. The case will go back to the parole board.
Reactions from the Community
Mayor Carter and the victims’ families were happy with the decision. They have fought for many years to keep Pauley in prison.
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