Seattle Office of Police Accountability

🔎 NEW! Closed Case Summaries (CCSs) have been posted bit.ly/opa_ccs

After a thorough review, OPA writes a report with its analysis and recommendations. Then, a Closed Case Summary is posted on our website about what was investigated, the findings, and any discipline imposed by the police chief.

Stay informed—transparency matters!

❗ Every year, OPA classifies more allegations for “Professionalism” than any other category of misconduct. These make up about one of every five (~20%) allegations OPA investigates. But what is “Professionalism”?

Professionalism involves a wide range of potential behavior. The policy covers both minor issues—such as rudeness or using an overbearing attitude—and serious misconduct that would “undermine public trust.” These serious incidents could result in a police officer losing their state “certification.” RCW 43.101.105. You may also have heard this concept called “conduct unbecoming an officer.”

The policy also contains some more specific guidance that only applies if an officer is “representing the Department” or if “on duty or in uniform.” The goal for the Department is that all employees treat all people with dignity.

🔗 Learn more! SPD Policy 5.001-POL-10 (Employees Will Strive to Be Professional): bit.ly/spdpolicymanual

On Monday, May 25, we pause to remember and honor those who gave their lives while serving in the U.S. military. We are grateful for their courage, their commitment, and their sacrifice. We also hold in our hearts the families and loved ones who continue to carry their memory forward. May we all take a moment today to reflect, remember, and give thanks 🎖️ ❤️

OPA and most City of Seattle Offices will be closed for Memorial Day on Monday, May 25. We will reopen on Tuesday, May 26. Complaints can still be submitted at seattle.gov/opa or emailed to [email protected].

OPA’s policy manager Justin Piccorelli presented at a Listening Session organized by the Human Rights Commission. He provided insight to the ways OPA contributes to policy change for the Seattle Police Department. It's important for community to be informed of OPA's mission as well its core functions such as identifying SPD system improvements and to recommend effective solutions.

OPA can offer suggestions for changes to training and or SPD policy though Management Action Recommendations (MAR). To find out more about OPA's impacts through policy go to bit.ly/opa_mars.

🕊️ Today, we pause to honor the dedication and ultimate sacrifice of law enforcement officers who gave their lives in the line of duty. We remember their service and hold space for their memories.

A Public Disclosure Request (PDR) is a specific request for records that an agency can identify. Examples include investigative files, disciplinary records, or interview transcriptions.

Under Washington State’s Public Records Act (PRA), the City of Seattle does not have to answer general questions, do research, or provide information that is not part of an identifiable public record.

🔗 Learn more and submit your request here: bit.ly/publicrecordsrequest

Text was created by AI, and reviewed and approved by OPA staff prior to publication.

📰 📢 Our April newsletter has arrived! Review it here: bit.ly/aprilnewsopa

Sign up to get OPA's monthly newsletter for our community outreach updates, investigation summaries, and police oversight news: bit.ly/OPAnewsletter

OPA is proud to share the winner of the 2026 OPA Art Contest. Emery K.’s art, depicting the theme, “Police & Community Working Together for a Better Seattle,” will be featured on OPA’s 2025 Annual Report Cover.

Thanks to all students who shared their talents with us through their submissions this year.

OPA attended the Chinatown-International District Business Improvement Area Public Safety Forum on 4/21/26 at the Chong Wa Benevolent Association building to listen and learn from community.

The meeting had speakers from SPD, CIDBIA Safety Ambassadors, Department of Neighborhoods: Community Capacity and Safety, Office of Economic Development, We Deliver Care, Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion, and REACH.

Did you know The Chong Wa Benevolent Association was established around 1892, and the building was built in 1929? It currently houses programs teaching Chinese language and culture, the Seattle Chinese Community Girls' Drill Team (inception in 1952), and the Seattle Chinatown Dragon Team (established in 1959).

🛡️ Is filing a complaint safe? Yes.

At OPA, we’ve designed our process with your safety in mind.

✅ You won’t be asked about your immigration status
✅ You are protected against retaliation
✅ You can file your complaint anonymously

Everyone deserves access to accountability—without fear. Learn more or file a complaint at www.seattle.gov/opa