Message from UPD Chief Katy Potts
On January 20, 2024, an incident occurred involving the use of force by two of our police officers on an individual who is unaffiliated with Western’s community. The individual was caught breaking into a private vehicle owned by one of the responding officers. The individual was subsequently handcuffed, and while being searched and moved into the police car, he was struck in the face by the arresting officer. This action was confirmed by body camera and audio recordings.
Due to the use of force in bringing this individual into University Police Department (UPD) custody, we immediately initiated a review as required by department policy. After reviewing the facts of the incident, I recognized the need for an official administrative internal review and contacted the Bellingham Police Department (BPD) to objectively assess the case. BPD identified potential criminal actions related to the UPD officers' use of force, and the case was referred to an independent agency, the Mt. Vernon Police Department, for a criminal investigation. Mt. Vernon PD concluded their investigation, and the case was forwarded to the Whatcom County Prosecuting Office for review of charges.
On July 8, I was contacted by Whatcom Prosecuting Attorney Bracke who advised that the County would be pursuing charges of assault in the 4th degree against UPD officer Robert Anderson for his actions on January 20.
On July 11, Robert Anderson’s employment with Western was terminated and the other officer involved remains on administrative leave pending the administrative internal review by BPD.
As law enforcement officers, we are entrusted with the immense responsibility of upholding the law and ensuring the safety of our community. We must always remember that with this responsibility comes the obligation that we treat every individual with dignity, respect and restraint. As the Chief of Police, I will continue to hold our department accountable and ensure that our officers use force appropriately and responsibly, and only when objectively reasonable based on the circumstances. This is essential for protecting the rights of individuals and for our community at large.
All of our officers and staff are provided with ongoing training on the agency's use-of-force policies, de-escalation, decision-making and response tactics. UPD has accountability and reporting measures in place to ensure that all incidents are properly documented; that reviews and investigations are conducted fairly and promptly; and in cases that confirm misconduct, that the respective officers are held responsible.
Katy Potts
WWU Chief of Police