Poll:
Do you agree with the decision to reinstate Officer Humphreys during investigation of the beanbag shooting incident?
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Officer Christopher Humphreys will return to the Portland Police force in an administrative role, pending the outcome of an internal investigation into his decision to shoot a 12-year-old girl at close range with a beanbag gun earlier this month, according to a press release from the Police Bureau.
Chief Rosie Sizer and Commissioner Dan Saltzman issued the statement Monday afternoon, just before the city's police union was scheduled to release the results of a no-confidence vote officers took via mail-in ballot last week.
Shortly after Humprheys' reinstatement, the Portland Police Association announced that it would not release results of the no-confidence vote.
“Chief Sizer and Commissioner Dan Saltzman have pledged more direct interaction, more conversation, and more frequent contact with the offi cers of the Portland Police Bureau,” said union President Scott Westerman. “And the PPA has pledged more interaction, conversation and outreach with the community. It is my sincere hope that these measures will lead to greater understanding and trust among residents, offi cers and the Bureau’s leadership.” Read Police Union statement.
Humphreys shot girl with beanbag gun
Humphreys was placed on paid leave following an incident in early November during which police officers forcibly restrained a 12-year-old girl who was resisting officers. Humphreys shot the girl with a beanbag gun.
The girl, who had allegedly violated a TriMet expulsion order, was hospitalized from the shooting.
On Nov. 19 Sizer called the incident "troubling," while Saltzman said Humphreys' actions "are not consistent with my expectations and what I believe are the community's expectations for a Portland Police Officer."
Second major incident for officer
Humphreys was also at the center of the controversial death of James Chasse, who died in police custody after being beaten by officers. Last week, Police officers across metro Portland protested Humphreys' suspension, and union president Scott Westerman said Humphreys had effectively been "hung out to dry" over his involvement in the 2006 death of Chasse.
A three-year investigation, recently concluded, found Humphreys was not guilty of excessive use of force in Chasse's death.
"Over the course of the last week, doubts have been raised ... about the state of the Portland Police Bureau. We think it is important to express that the (bureau) and public safety ... are in sound condition," the joint statement said.
