This week, OII released the “Status Report on the OII Implementation Plan" [PDF] which details for the Legislature how the agency plans to operate and conduct investigations of incidents where law enforcement officers use deadly force.
“Building a new agency from the ground up poses significant challenges, but also remarkable opportunities to get it right.” Director Roger Rogoff said. “This report provides a snapshot of the work my team and I are currently involved with as we diligently create this new and unique agency.”
The statute that authorized OII (RCW 43.102) requires it to develop a plan to implement all aspects of its operations, including how it will hire staff, provide training, engage with the community, and conduct its work through an anti-racist lens. Providing a report on development of this plan is one way the agency is attempting to ensure transparency and keep the public fully informed of its activities.
Since the report was first written, several developments have occurred. Director Rogoff has hired a chief of staff and filled several key leadership positions. Recruitment is also well underway to hire investigators, and many have been interviewed. Agency staff members are engaged in a robust outreach effort, meeting with community groups across the state, families impacted by police use of force incidents, as well as state and federal law enforcement officials, county prosecutors, coroners, and medical examiners.
OII was authorized to begin investigating cases as of July 1, 2022. Director Rogoff, hired two weeks earlier on June 16, 2022, is continuing to evaluate when OII will have the staffing, infrastructure, and resources in place to conduct thorough, fair, competent and unbiased investigations.
OII will issue an announcement well in advance of any new start date that is identified. Join the OII News & Updates distribution list to stay informed of agency developments or email ContactUs@oii.wa.gov with questions or concerns.
Media inquiries can be directed to Hector Castro, assistant director for communications and community relations, at hector.castro@oii.wa.gov or 360-870-8115.