Clallam County Superior Court Judge Brent Basden declined Tuesday to implement a jointly proposed mental health sentencing alternative and committed a 34-year-old man to state prison for 23.25 months.
The court determined that James R. Lundstrom expressed openness to participating in the specialized program. Basden concluded there was sufficient evidence to classify Lundstrom as a person with mental illness under state law, and that his condition likely played a role in the conduct leading to his charges. No substance use disorder was formally identified.
Despite these findings, the judge opted for incarceration, citing lingering questions about public safety and the program’s potential to support both Lundstrom and the broader community.
Lundstrom, who remained in custody during proceedings, spoke before the court issued its decision. His public defender, Charlie Commeree, urged the court to adopt the recommended disposition that both prosecution and defense had endorsed. Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Jesse Espinoza had first updated the court on the mental health sentencing option prior to that request.
The court imposed the standard sentencing range for the lead count: 23.25 months, at the low end of the 23.25 to 30.75 month bracket based on an offender score of 3. All periods of confinement run concurrently, and the judge added 18 months of community supervision.
A warrant of commitment issued the same day instructs the Clallam County sheriff to retain Lundstrom pending transfer to the Washington Corrections Center.
While on supervision, Lundstrom must complete a mental health evaluation and adhere to all suggested interventions. He is prohibited from using alcohol or controlled substances—including cannabis—and must consult with his community corrections officer regarding his place of residence, requiring departmental approval before moving.
Lundstrom entered guilty pleas on May 19 to eight of the nine counts in the indictment. All counts share an offense date of February 22.
The primary charge is attempted first-degree burglary, a Class B felony. Two counts of first-degree harassment—each involving threats to kill—and one count of third-degree assault, based on criminal negligence causing substantial harm, are Class C felonies. First-degree malicious mischief, involving over $5,000 in property damage, constitutes a second Class B felony.
The remaining charges include three gross misdemeanors: second-count malicious mischief, second-degree vehicle prowling, and obstructing a law enforcement officer. Each carries a maximum term of 364 days, with 354 days suspended and a 24-month supervision period.
Judge Basden dismissed count six, designated as second-degree malicious mischief on the docket.