WA agency investigating police deadly force incidents plans for expansion into new regions

The Office of Independent Investigations in Washington plans to announce its second region for police deadly-force investigations within weeks, as stated by Director Roger Rogoff. The agency has so far managed five fatal-force incidents since its inception, with two investigations completed and three pending. Rogoff highlighted the agency's commitment to transparency, citing plain-language reports and family liaison programs as examples of its mission. Staffing challenges persist, with the office currently employing 66 staff members, including 31 investigators, and seeking funding for five additional investigators. He described the statutory goal of issuing reports within 120 days as aggressive, suggesting a more reasonable timeline of 180 days.

The agency's operational capacity was recently tested when two fatal incidents occurred on the same night, and Rogoff praised his staff's ability to respond. Despite budget cuts impacting the agency's progress, Rogoff remains hopeful and urges lawmakers to support their efforts. The announcement about the second region and plans for further expansions is anticipated before the end of the year.