Questions over OPA track record of SPDs new East Precinct commander UPDATE Removed

Chief Shon Barnes appointed Michael Tietjen as commander of Seattle's East Precinct, despite his controversial history with the Seattle Police Department. The promotion faced immediate backlash, particularly from the LGBTQIA+ community, leading to Barnes's decision to remove Tietjen within a month. Tietjen replaced Doug Raguso, who had made strides in fostering positive relationships with Capitol Hill’s LGBTQ and nightlife business communities. Tietjen's past includes disciplinary actions for inappropriate conduct, such as harassing a trans woman during a sidewalk encounter. Additionally, a previous incident involved an SPD sergeant nearly striking protesters with a vehicle.

In a related development, the Seattle School Board voted against reinstating a police officer at Garfield High School, emphasizing concerns over trust and disproportionate policing. This decision followed a year-long debate sparked by the murder of student Amarr Murphy-Paine and ongoing gun violence. The rejection highlights a broader discussion on the role of police in schools amid community calls for reform.