A Seattle police officer is facing potential disciplinary action after making derogatory comments about a graduate student from India who was tragically struck and killed by another officer’s vehicle in a crosswalk last year. The officer’s offensive remarks were captured on his body camera, prompting an investigation by the city’s Office of Police Accountability. The findings of an independent review of the incident conducted by the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
During the investigation, it was revealed that Officer Daniel Auderer made comments suggesting that the victim had “limited value.” The insensitive nature of these remarks undermines the principles of respect and equality that are fundamental to effective policing. Such behavior is in direct violation of the professional standards expected of police officers in Seattle.
In an effort to ensure a fair and unbiased assessment of the incident, the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office enlisted the services of an external firm to conduct a thorough review of the police investigation. This independent review seeks to evaluate the actions taken by the officers involved and provide recommendations for disciplinary measures.
Police Chief Adrian Diaz holds the responsibility of determining the appropriate disciplinary actions for Officer Daniel Auderer. The chief’s decision will be based on the findings and recommendations presented during a recent disciplinary hearing, where members of the chief’s chain of command discussed the Office of Police Accountability’s report.
Considering the severity of the officer’s comments and their impact on public trust, the range of potential disciplinary actions includes termination. The decision made by Chief Diaz will not only serve as a form of accountability for Officer Auderer but will also send a message to the community that such behavior is unacceptable within the Seattle Police Department.
