Snoqualmie knowingly hired a police officer with a history of using excessive force, according to two articles in the Seattle Times (July 16 and 18). They state that the officer was fired from the Tukwila Police Department after two of his arrests cost that city $275,000, and also report that four police departments subsequently turned down his application for employment. His involvement in the anti-drug group Straight Edge, “considered a gang by some law enforcement agencies” according to the articles, was a factor. If all of this is true, the why would the city hire him?

These articles state this officer has been following Snoqualmie Police policies and protocols so far, but why expose our communities to a lawsuit if he loses control in the future? As the city hired him knowing his past record, another excessive force claim could easily cost community taxpayers a seven-figure settlement.

The articles claim the city of Snoqualmie did not respond to requests for comment. If the articles are incorrect, the record should be set straight as they sully the Snoqualmie Police Department and its officers who do a commendable job.

It would put our community at ease knowing that their tax dollars will not be used to settle expensive legal costs. If the articles are correct, the city owes its citizens an explanation for hiring an individual with such a troubling history.

Dan Olah

North Bend