This weekend, I became aware of a video in a New York Times article that showed officers in a de-escalation training session having a spirited discussion. I referred the incident to OPA to determine if the use of force incident referred to in the video was reported and within policy…. [ Keep reading ]
The Seattle Police Department stands committed to reform, and is energized by the enhanced training and new tools developed in partnership with the Federal Monitoring team. Our officers now carry with them the skills to de-escalate conflict and identify and assist those in crisis. When officers must resort to force,… [ Keep reading ]
For nearly six years, family and colleagues have awaited justice for the murder of Seattle Police Officer Timothy Brenton and the attempted murder of both his partner, Officer Britt Kelly and Homicide Sergeant Gary Nelson. I hope the verdict today brings some comfort to Tim’s loved ones and close SPD friends. Tim remains… [ Keep reading ]
Some Seattle Police officers will don darkened shades to compete against the Seattle South King Sluggers in a game designed for blind athletes. SPD players will have to listen for the ball and listen for which base to run. The public is invited to attend the Seattle Police Department vs. Seattle… [ Keep reading ]
SEATTLE (May 21, 2015) – Today Mayor Murray and Chief of Police Kathleen O’Toole announced SPD Safe Place, a public education and visibility campaign aimed at preventing and responding to anti-LGBT bias crimes. “Seattle welcomes all people,” said Mayor Ed Murray. “There is no place for bigotry or harassment in… [ Keep reading ]
Today, I provided this letter to our partners at the Community Police Commission, after receiving their feedback (PDF) on SPD’s demonstration management practices: Thank you for continuing your work to gather and provide feedback from our community. Enhancing community trust is of paramount importance to the Seattle Police Department, and I genuinely value… [ Keep reading ]
I was shocked and disappointed to hear Councilmember Harrell’s comments today related to the SPD’s performance during the May Day demonstration on Friday evening. His statements directly contradict the overwhelming, positive feedback the SPD has received from the community in recent days. The Seattle Police Department has worked hard with… [ Keep reading ]
Seattle Police Department Micro Community Policing Plans have been finalized and are being published on Nextdoor neighborhoods today. No two neighborhoods are alike, nor are their safety priorities and concerns about crime. Recognizing this, the Micro Community Policing Plans are designed to put the department’s energy and resources into addressing… [ Keep reading ]
Yesterday I signed a termination order for an officer who initiated unprofessional and highly inappropriate communication with women he came into contact with while at work. The damage to the public trust in this department from this type of behavior cannot be overstated. The decision to end someone’s employment is… [ Keep reading ]
I am pleased to announce the next generation of leaders in the Seattle Police Department.
