Man who damaged Seattle park with stolen excavator arrested again for violation of ban

SEATTLE — He was banned from all Seattle city parks after being arrested for causing significant property destruction, but on Tuesday Steve Irwin returned to jail for violating that restriction.

Irwin, 41, was banned from all parks for a year after his arrest by Seattle police in October for using an excavator to demolish a hill at Dr. Jose Rizal Park.

Last month, workers with the privately funded homeless outreach group We Heart Seattle discovered signs that Irwin had ignored the ban and returned to Jose Rizal Park. Program director Tim Emerson said it started with a tarp stretched across the ground, then a makeshift shelter was dug into the hillside.

“We've been coming to this park for over three years helping different people living in tents in this park and during those years we met Steve Irwin,” Emerson said. “He’s the only person who categorically refuses to leave this side of the park.”

Irwin claimed to have permission to remove vegetation to build a cabin. He also intended to mine for gold. In doing so, city parks officials said he downed dozens of trees and caused thousands of dollars in damage.

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“It paves the way for destruction. He likes to tear up one side of the green belt looking for gold and diamonds,” Emerson said. “He has stolen several pieces of equipment from construction sites, bucket loaders, excavators, etc. and he just brings them here and takes them apart.”

Irwin has previously been charged with several crimes, including malicious mischief, possession of a stolen vehicle, criminal trespass, obstructing a police officer and vehicle theft.

Irwin has had numerous opportunities to get help, but until now he has refused to voluntarily enroll in any programs.

“What’s happening today is probably the most compassionate thing that could have happened to him,” Emerson said. “This is the only way for him to connect to services. He is not willing to work with anyone or do it alone. »

Irwin was convicted of criminal trespass and property damage. It is not known how long he will remain in detention.