State Patrol Looking for Community Representatives for Independent Investigation Teams

The Washington State Patrol is looking for community representatives in every county to be part of their Independent Investigation Teams, or IIT.

Spokesman Chris Loftis says these groups came out of a state initiative to review the use of deadly force by law enforcement.

"The whole idea is to increase trust between law enforcement and the community in what can be very strained situations. We're looking for someone who has that gravitas in their communities so they're respected and well thought of, but also has the disposition to jump in to a professional situation."

The teams will consist of some law enforcement representatives in addition to the independent community members.

Loftis says volunteers will be signing up for a two-year commitment, though it could stretch longer depending on circumstance.

"This is an effort to bring an appropriate level of transparency to this process. Bringing the community in so they can trust the process and know going forward that the pursuit of justice is really what's being done, not an attempt to hide something, cover up or protect."

Responsibilities of the Position(s) Include:

1. Participate in the selection of IIT certified law enforcement investigators.
2. Understand and be knowledgeable of statewide best practices involving the investigation of
   law enforcement use of lethal force investigations and applicable laws as they relate to the use
   of force and officer involved deadly force incidents.
3. Review and sign a Conflict of Interest Statement.
4. Review and sign a binding Confidentiality Agreement.
5. Attend officer-involved use of deadly force briefings with the involved agency chief
   executive(s).
6. Review or have access to the investigative file when completed.
7. Receive media communication(s) and press releases prior to their release.
8. Review use of involved agency equipment requests.

Interested, qualified applicants may submit the application materials listed below electronically to IITCommunityRep@wsp.wa.gov . Application materials must be received by Friday, July 30, 2021. Application materials received after the deadline will not be considered.
Application materials must consist of:

1. The applicant’s full and complete name, date of birth, residential address, contact phone number(s), and e-mail address.
2. A letter of interest including a narrative identifying what the applicant believes his/her particular strengths and challenges would be in the position of IIT Non-Law Enforcement Community Representative. Letters of interest should be no longer than two pages.
3. An up-to-date professional resume or explanation as to how their life experiences within the community would allow them to perform the responsibilities in an unbiased, neutral and effective manner.