Jones confirmed as Seattle judge

Washington, D.C.

The Senate has confirmed Richard A. Jones as a federal court judge in Seattle.

A King County Superior Court judge since 1994, he was nominated by President Bush in March at the recommendation of a bipartisan panel.

Democratic Sen. Patty Murray of Washington said Jones has handled some very difficult cases — including that of Green River Killer Gary L. Ridgway — and that he has won universal respect.

Jones is the half-brother of music producer Quincy Jones, and was born and raised in Seattle. He graduated from the University of Washington School of Law. He has also worked as a King County deputy prosecutor and an assistant U.S. attorney.

Jones fills the seat of Judge John C. Coughenour, who took senior status last year.