Lawsuit Claims State Neglected Mental Health Care for Lake Stevens Man Shot by Police

May 29, 2025 - 18:08

The family of James Blancocotto, a Lake Stevens man who was shot by police while fleeing in a patrol car, has filed a lawsuit alleging that the state failed to provide necessary mental health evaluations prior to the incident. According to the lawsuit, Blancocotto was in a state of crisis when he was approached by law enforcement, but his mental health needs were not adequately addressed.

The complaint highlights a systemic failure in the mental health care system, asserting that delays in evaluation and treatment contributed to the tragic events that unfolded. The family contends that had Blancocotto received timely and appropriate mental health support, the confrontation with police could have been avoided.

The lawsuit seeks accountability not only for the police actions during the incident but also for the state's role in neglecting mental health services. This case brings to light the ongoing issues surrounding mental health care accessibility and the urgent need for reform to prevent similar tragedies in the future.