‘Deeply concerned.’ Pasco, Kennewick chiefs disturbed by police actions in Floyd death
Pasco’s police chief expressed deep concern about what he saw in the video of George Floyd’s death.
Chief Ken Roske issued a public statement Tuesday on Facebook after meeting with Tri-City protesters who came to the police department angry about the injustice they saw in Minneapolis.
“As a professional law enforcement officer, I am deeply concerned by what I saw ... and the actions of the police officers captured in the video,” he wrote. “The actions of the police officers involved are not consistent with the training, policies, values and high standards of the Pasco Police Department.”
Roske’s sentiments were echoed by Kennewick Police Chief Ken Hohenberg, who served on the governor’s deadly force task force. The task force recommended changes to the standards for deadly force, additional training for de-escalation, as well as mandating independent investigations for officer-involved shootings.
What happened to Floyd in the video is not consistent with the training or values of Kennewick police, Hohenberg told the Herald.
“Each person deserves justice, and we will continue our work to improve policies, training, culture and transparency,” he said. “In Kennewick and throughout the Tri-Cities, we have worked hard to build trust between law enforcement and the communities we serve. What occurred in Minneapolis is a reminder of how quickly bad policing can undermine that trust.”
Pasco police have worked for years on improving their connection with the community and make sure to include them as they review their policies and training, Roske said.
“We believe in engaging with our community to ensure transparency and strengthen their confidence,” he said.
Shortly before the Pasco chief shared his message, Irene Mendoza with Jaime and The Justice League shared notes the group had from a meeting with Pasco police leaders.
Jaime Torres, the founder of the Facebook group, led protests in Richland and in Pasco. He wanted to make sure the protests stayed peaceful.
The organization was told that Pasco leaders were pleased with what they saw on Court Street, and how the community came together.
She said the department is willing to support future protests, and share the stage.
“We have secured a seat at the table to continue conversations of resolutions to define solutions for change,” Mendoza wrote. “We have secured an opportunity to plan bigger events.”