Washington Criminal Statute of Limitations

Statute: 9A.04.080

Summary: The following sets forth the applicable crimes and the time period within which a prosecution must commence thereafter.

Felonies:

• Murder, arson causing death: N/A
• Homicide by abuse, vehicular homicide, vehicular assault causing death, hit-and-run injury/accident causing death: N/A
• Public official misconduct, arson: 10 years
• Rape (if reported within 1 year of commission): 10 years
• Rape (if victim is under 14 years old): 3 years after victim turns 18 or 10 years (whichever is later)
• Rape (if not reported within 1 year): 3 years or if victim is under 14 years old, 3 years after victim turns 18 years old  (but not more than 7 years after rape)
• Child molestation, indecent liberties, incest: if victim is under 14 years old, 3 years after victim turns 18 years old, but not more than 7 years of offense
• Leading organized crime or criminal profiteering: 6 years
• Class C felony: 5 years
• Bigamy and all other felonies: 3 years

Misdemeanors: Gross misdemeanors: 2 years; other offenses: 1 year

Statute (time) does not run: Not publicly a resident

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