Title
Briefing on the October 2025 Critical Incident Review and Community Representative Role
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive a briefing on the October 2025 Critical Incident Review and Community Representative role.
Report
Issue:
Whether to Receiving a briefing on the October 2025 Critical Incident Review and Community Representative role.
Staff Contact:
Ray Brady, Deputy Chief, Olympia Police Department, 360.753.8147
Presenter(s):
Ray Brady, Deputy Chief, Olympia Police Department
Lisa Ostler, Community Representative, Olympia Police Department
Use of Force Review Board
Robin Rosen-Evans, Community Representative, Olympia Police Department
Use of Force Review Board
Background and Analysis:
On October 21, 2025, Olympia Police Officers were dispatched to an “unknown trouble” call on 6th Avenue NW. Officers responded to the scene and located the subject of the 911 calls. The subject charged at officers with a weapon, and an officer-involved shooting occurred. Officers immediately provided medical aid, and the subject survived their injuries.
The Capital Metro Independent Investigative Team (CMIIT) responded to the scene and assumed the investigation. Per state law, policy and procedure, Olympia Police Department members did not participate in the investigation.
Two non-law enforcement Olympia Community Representatives responded to the scene and observed the investigation consistent with the direction put forth in Washington Administrative Code 139-12-030.
Involved officers were placed on administrative leave, per policy (the member who used deadly force remained on administrative leave/administrative duties until after the administrative review was completed).
The CMIIT completed the investigation in February 2026. The CMIIT forwarded the case to the Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney upon the completion of the investigation.
On March 8, 2026, the Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney provided their review of the case and concluded that the officer’s actions were justified under Washington State law, and as such, no criminal charges would be filed.
The Olympia Police Department (OPD) objectively evaluates the use of force by its members to ensure that their authority is used lawfully, appropriately, and is consistent with training and policy. Per OPD Policy, a Use of Force Review Board was convened. The board’s composition is dictated by policy and is comprised of the following members: a lieutenant in the involved member’s chain of command, a training sergeant, a patrol sergeant, an officer selected by the involved officer, a sworn peace officer from an outside law enforcement agency, a department instructor, a patrol tactics instructor, and two community representatives.
The Use of Force Review Board is responsible for reviewing the circumstances surrounding any use of force that results in great bodily harm, death, or an officer’s intentional discharge of a firearm.
The Use of Force Review Board was convened over the course of two days in April 2026. The board received a briefing from The Capital Metro Independent Investigation Team and interviewed the involved OPD members and witnesses. At the conclusion of the review, the board unanimously concluded the OPD sergeant’s actions were within department policy and training. Members of the board offered ten recommendations regarding policy and procedure, training and equipment.
This briefing will provide an overview of the critical incident that occurred on October 21, 2025, review the Department’s internal review process, present the board member’s recommendations, explain the community representative’s role on the review board, and discuss the community representatives’ experience of the internal review process.
Climate Analysis:
This topic is not expected to have an impact on greenhouse gas emissions.
Equity Analysis:
The Use of Force Review Board process is designed to evaluate the officer’s actions to ensure everyone was treated equitably and fairly during the use of force event.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The community has an expectation of police transparency and accountability.
Financial Impact:
None
Options:
1. Receive a briefing on the October 2025 Critical Incident Review and Community Representative role.
2. Do not receive the briefing.
3. Receive the report at another time.
Attachments:
None