February 23, 2012
Dear Mayor McGinn,
I think you share the view that Seattle rightfully expects its police department to be a service agency that protects the safety and respects the rights of everyone in our community whether they are under arrest, reporting a crime, or are simply bystanders. Courtesy, respect, and professionalism should be hallmarks of all officer conduct.
We were sorely disappointed, therefore, to hear OPA Director Kathryn Olson’s comments last week to the City Council’s Public Safety Committee. On the subject of Officer Richardson’s statement to two men in his custody that he would “make stuff up” about an alleged robbery, Ms. Olson described the officer’s statements as merely “banter” and “taken out of context.”
Whether or not Officer Richardson violated SPD policy, the fact that his supervisors, the upper leadership of the SPD, and the Office of Professional Accountability all consider these kinds of comments merely “banter” is evidence of the culture of disrespect which the ACLU and many community groups have complained about for years. Even presuming that Officer Richardson did not falsify records, the threats were unprofessional, disrespectful, and sent the message that truth is irrelevant and rights are expendable.
Such messages diminish the reputation of a police department filled with many well-meaning, hard-working and professional officers.
The people of Seattle and their police officers deserve leaders who will reinforce the values of courtesy, respect, and professionalism while supporting their mission to “fight crime, reduce fear, and build community" We are counting on you to lead that effort.
Sincerely,
Kathleen Taylor
Executive Director
Cc: Public Safety, Civil Rights, and Technology Committee
Councilmember Bruce Harrell, Chair
Councilmcmbcr Mike O’Brien
Conncilmcinbcr Nick Licata
OPA Director Kathryn Olson
