SEATTLE — Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell is scheduled to make a “major public safety announcement” at 1 p.m. Wednesday.
A source told KOMO News the announcement is regarding Seattle police Chief Adrian Diaz.
KOMO News will livestream the announcement here, on YouTube and on KOMO’s watch page.
Recent SPD turmoil
A month ago, Harrell said he was evaluating everyone within the Seattle Police Department, including the chief, amid a string of claims alleging sexual harassment and sexual and racial discrimination from department leaders.
Recent turmoil within the SPD has made headlines as Diaz has been accused by multiple employees in lawsuits and tort claims.
Last month, four female employees stepped forward to accuse the chief and his top lieutenant, John O’Neill, of a pattern of harassment, discrimination and a hostile work environment. They filed a $5 million claim against the city.
In late April, Harrell said he hired an independent investigator to review the claims made against Diaz and O’Neill, who leads the media relations unit.
Assistant Chief Tyrone Davis was put on administrative leave on May 23, adding to the internal chaos at the SPD. In a message to staff, Diaz said the move was a precautionary step “due to (Office of Police Accountability) allegations.” It’s unclear the nature of the OPA complaint that led to the immediate suspension.
Davis — one of five assistant chiefs, according to the SPD’s website — has overseen special operations and joined the SPD in 1999. His department includes SWAT, hostage negotiations, the arson/bomb squad, the harbor unit and the canine unit. He is the highest-ranking African American officer in the department.
Davis was promoted by Diaz and replaced Eric Greening, who recently filed suit against the city of Seattle and Diaz alleging he was retaliated against for reporting on discrimination within the department and the appearance of segregation. Greening also claimed that community outreach was being done solely by female and BIPOC officers.
Last week, supporters of Diaz said accusations of sexual harassment and discrimination are from “disgruntled” employees who are “serial complainers.” Victoria Beach, Rev. Harriet Walden and Carmen Martinez made the claims in a 45-minute news conference in Beacon Hill since, they said, Diaz could not defend himself.
Diaz was hired as acting chief in September 2020 after Carmen Best resigned. Two years later, Harrell said he intended to appoint Diaz to the permanent position, and Diaz was sworn in on Jan. 12, 2023.
The SPD continues to struggle with staffing, down more than 345 officers at last count, according to Seattle City Council President Sara Nelson, despite the city offering major signing bonuses and a massive back-timed pay increase. Last week, the City Council approved legislation to streamline hiring.
Elaine Hadley is a dedicated journalist covering the ever-evolving landscape of U.S. news. With a keen interest in politics and a commitment to uncovering the truth, she provides insightful commentary and in-depth analysis on domestic issues. When not reporting, Elaine enjoys exploring the diverse cultures and landscapes of the United States.
