Federal Judge James Robart ruled that Seattle is partly out of compliance with the consent decree when it comes to police accountability.
He directed the city to fix the issues in the contract, many of which have been raised by the CPC over the past few years. Until they do, federal oversight of the police department will continue.
The CPC released the following statement after the decision today.
The Community Police Commission is grateful to Judge Robart for helping lift up the community’s voice in this process.
Agreeing with the CPC, Judge Robart acknowledged that the police contracts weakened the accountability system and broke a promise that was made to the community.
We’re ready to move forward to help ensure the city has a strong police accountability system and the community’s voice is heard in that process.
At the same time, we honor the improvements that have been achieved by our police officers over the past seven years. This ruling will ensure they keep the well-earned raises they received in the latest contract.
“We want to move forward. The CPC is ready to work closely with the Seattle Police Department and all of our system partners.”
“I want to thank my colleagues in the commission for taking a firm and courageous stance in bringing their voices to our community and to the court.”
- Isaac Ruiz, CPC Co-Chair
