Spotting three teens loitering near the door of the closed-for-remodeling Admiral Safeway, an officer decided to speak with them. Two were 16 years old; the third was 15. An ID check showed that all three had prior contact police within the last nine months. The officer smelled marijuana, and one teen admitted that he was likely still carrying some from Hempfest. His pot and his pipe were confiscated, and the three were told to proceed toward one's home near the Alaska Junction. The officer told them to walk there on California Avenue and requested that another officer drive by occasionally to check their progress and ensure their safety, given that this all occurred at 4 a.m. Wednesday.

When two already intoxicated (one had been vomiting) patrons were declined service at an Alki bar, they began yelling and spat at the bartender. When a patron tried to be helpful and escort them from the bar, he was punched several times in the face. Once outside, the man kicked and shattered the establishment's front door, causing $250 damage. Officers were able to apprehend both suspects as they tried to walk from the scene. The pair (man 24, woman, 39), both Alki-area residents, were booked into King County Jail for investigation of misdemeanor assault. The man might also face property damage charges.

When officers investigated a suspicious van blocking an alley in the 10200 block of 39th, they discovered a man asleep inside. It turned out that the 35-year-old West Seattle resident was wanted on a warrant. He was booked into King County Jail.

When 42-year-old Uncle (recently released from prison after kicking a police officer in the face) thought 15-year-old Nephew was asking Grandma for money, he hit and kicked him. How badly? Officers called to the home by a concerned citizen found blood puddles and spatter throughout the home and in the parking area. The alleged aggressor was gone, the boy was gone, and Grandma refused to say where she had taken him. Staff at a local emergency room called 911 to report that the boy had been brought in by a friend. The photographs of his injuries showed cut, scrapes, redness and swelling to his face, nose, chest head, neck and arms. Where he had been kicked—in the chest and back—officers found visible shoe print impressions. The suspect remains at large.

Burglaries/break-ins/car prowls by block: 2100 Halleck SW, 10000 35th SW, 3000 49th SW, 1900 Sunset SW, 4600 SW Walker, 1700 Palm SW, 5400 SW Genesee, 5900 38th SW, 5100 SW Waite, 7100 44th SW, 3000 Fairmount SW

A NOTE FROM MEGAN SHEPPARD: After nearly ten years, this is my fond farewell to the West Seattle Herald Police Beat. It's been a pleasure keeping you informed and amused! If you're old enough to remember TV's "Hill Street Blues," you'll remember the beloved Sgt. Phil Esterhaus. His wish for his officers in every episode is my wish for all of us: "Let's be careful out there."