Over the last few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to talk with many community members to discuss a wide range of topics. As a result, I feel that it is important for me, as the Chief of Police, to reaffirm our department’s commitment to protect and serve our community with professionalism, compassion, and equity by releasing the following statement:
In light of the civil rights movement happening throughout the United States and throughout this summer, I and members of the Bothell Police Department have proudly stood in solidarity with community members to denounce racism and stand for equality.
The Bothell Police Department is committed to serving our diverse community by partnering with community members most impacted by systemic racism to build trust and respect between the police and all our community members. When hate crimes happen in Bothell, the Bothell Police Department will be there to thoroughly investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice.
I truly feel honored to work with the officers and employees of the Bothell Police Department. They are passionate about serving this community and strive for excellence every day; however, should misconduct occur, officers and employees will be held accountable to our policies, procedures, and state law as required by I-940 and HB -1064.
I am committed to working with the residents of Bothell and our City Council to redefine policing in our city so that social needs can be met with the appropriate response and, in so doing, allow police officers to focus on investigating crimes. Thanks to a grant from King County to fund our RADAR program and the voter-approved Public Safety Levy, I can hire more Navigators to respond to the ever-growing crisis of homelessness, mental health, and addiction.
In all that we do, from hiring, training, and interacting with the public, the Bothell Police Department strives to be anti-racist, to overcome biases, and serve our community justly and equally. It is my desire as Chief of Police to build relationships and to protect and serve our community in the most responsible and equitable manner possible.
For those who wish to support Bothell Police in achieving excellence in community policing, please work with city, county, and state officials to increase funding for: police training, Navigators, services for the homeless, substance abuse resources, and comprehensive mental health services. These solutions will help us better meet the pressing needs of our community.
As Chief, I value conversations with community members on redefining policing in our community to ensure those we serve are met with professionalism, compassion, and equity.
Ken Seuberlich, Chief of Police