Investigators from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Rights Section came to Seattle in May to determine whether the Seattle Police Department (SPD) has engaged in a pattern or practice of excessive use of force or discriminatory policing. The feds reviewed SPD policies and practices and interviewed and observed officers. They also spoke with the ACLU-WA, many other organizations, and community members.
The DOJ will work with SPD to find ways to improve its operations to ensure it is an effective and accountable police agency and one that has the trust of the community.
“We believe that this process will give Seattle police much-needed tools to address problems with use of force and other issues that we have been growing for years,” said ACLU-WA deputy director Jennifer Shaw.
Last December, the ACLU-WA and 34 community organizations sent a letter asking for an investigation of SPD after a string of troubling incidents involving unnecessary or excessive use of force by officers. A preliminary inquiry convinced the DOJ that a full-scale investigation was warranted.
In recent months, the ACLU-WA has participated in numerous community forums and media interviews about police accountability. Among other things, we’ve pointed out the need for more training in skills for de-escalating conflicts. Officer need to better understand not just their authority to use force, but how to exercise discretion so that they can resolve some situations without using force.
Community members are invited to provide input to the Department of Justice about their experiences with the Seattle Police Department. A toll-free hotline (855-203-4479) has been established to receive phone calls, or comments may be submitted by e-mail to [email protected].
