Kirkland Seeks Volunteers For Police Use Of Force Investigations

KIRKLAND, WA — Kirkland is searching for two community representatives to join a new Independent Force Investigation Team, joining other Eastside cities in standing up the new process for probing use of force incidents involving police officers.

A state law approved by lawmakers in 2019 mandates that police force resulting in serious injury or death be investigated by a fully independent agency. Part of the team will include certified law enforcement investigators, but must also include at least two community members unaffiliated with police.

Selected volunteers will be unpaid and expected to serve for at least two years, with the possibility of extension at the discretion of each city's police chief.

Here are the qualifications for community representatives:

1. City of Kirkland resident, business owner, non-profit director/manager or faith-based leader within the City of Kirkland.
2. Be at least 21 years of age.
3. Submit a resume and letter of interest describing your background, community involvement and interest in serving as a community representative.
4. Successfully pass a criminal records check (For Criminal Justice Information Services compliance) since the candidate will have access to law enforcement sensitive information and personal identifying information (PII).
5. Must be willing to attend basic training that may enhance basic knowledge of proper investigation protocols. Dates and times to be determined after selection.
6. Able to meet the time and commitments required of the Non-Law Enforcement Community Representative position.

Applications are due by March 15, 2021, and must include a single-page letter of interest detailing community ties and reasoning for wanting to serve in the position. Those interested can apply online, via e-mail, or by mailing a packet to the police department at 11750 NE 118th Street. Applicants chosen to move forward will be interviewed by Kirkland police leadership and confirmed by City Manager's office. Interviews are expected to take place between March 22 and March 26.

Learn more about the community representative position and the Independent Force Investigation Team on the Kirkland city website.