A Statement From Mayor Victoria Woodards on Attorney General's Office Charging Decision

In her recent statement, Mayor Victoria Woodards addressed the significant decision made by the Attorney General’s Office to charge three Tacoma police officers in connection with the death of Manuel Ellis. She recognized that these charges would likely provoke a spectrum of emotions within the community, from relief to distress. Woodards emphasized the profound loss of Black lives and the impact it has on families and communities, acknowledging the Ellis family's request for an independent investigation that was successfully conducted. She expressed gratitude towards the Washington State Patrol and the Attorney General's Office for their thoroughness in handling the case. The Mayor also highlighted the importance of a separate administrative review to assess potential disciplinary actions against the officers involved, stressing the need for accountability in law enforcement.

With the legal proceedings now in motion, she urged the community to remain patient and trust in the justice system's processes. Woodards reaffirmed her commitment to transparency and ongoing communication with the public regarding the status of the investigation and any administrative actions. The statement serves as a call for unity and understanding as Tacoma navigates this critical moment in its pursuit of justice.