Assessor Scott Noble pleads not guilty to vehicular assault, won't resign

King County Assessor Scott Noble, who pleaded not guilty Thursday to two counts of vehicular assault, has no plans to resign, according to his attorney.

"He will be returning to work shortly," said John Wolfe, who didn't give a specific date for Noble's return.

Officials for both parties have called for Noble's resignation after he was involved in a wrong-way accident on Jan. 18 that injured two women on Interstate 5 in Federal Way. His blood-alcohol level was measured at 0.22 percent, close to three times the legal limit, according to the State Patrol.

Noble, 58, ran for assessor as a Democrat. He's been assessor 16 years.

Noble allegedly made a U-turn on the freeway and started driving into oncoming traffic when he collided with the SUV.

The women were treated for broken bones and Noble was taken to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, where he underwent surgery. He remained in the hospital for several weeks and has been working remotely while recovering, his staff has said.

"He has had serious injuries — multiple rib fractures, intestinal tears," Wolfe said Thursday after Noble's arraignment in King County Superior Court. "He has been working from home."

Noble, who appeared at the arraignment, referred all questions to Wolfe.

The state Attorney General's Office filed felony charges against Noble on March 6. If convicted, Noble would face a standard sentence of 12 to 14 months in prison, and he would have to forfeit public office.

The accident went unreported for weeks because the State Patrol did not immediately recognize the assessor under his full name, Russell S. Noble.

Asked why Noble did not come forward about the accident earlier, Wolfe said, "Mr. Noble is an elected official. This accident occurred in the early-morning hours. He had a right to privacy."

As for those who have urged Noble to step down, Wolfe said, "people can express opinions."

Sharon Pian Chan: 206-464-2958 or schan@seattletimes.com