THE VANCOUVER POLICE DEPARTMENT ISSUES THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT REGARDING THE INTERNAL INVESTIGATION INVOLVING CPL. RANDY BRAAKSMA.
Posted: February 10th, 2010 5:07 PM
Following a thorough 12 month investigation of allegations of mishandling of evidence, Chief Clifford Cook has terminated Cpl. Braaksma's employment with the Vancouver Police Department effective immediately.
The most egregious violation found in the investigation revealed Cpl. Braaksma had taken drug and other evidence to his personal residence where he held them for possibly up to a year. As a direct result of Cpl. Braaksma's conduct, the Clark County Prosecuting Attorney's Office declined to prosecute the suspect in the case involving this evidence. In another case, Cpl. Braaksma reported seizing cash and drugs during the arrest of a suspect, but the evidence was not submitted to the VPD evidence facility until six months later. Additional cases were also discovered in which Cpl. Braaksma mishandled evidence in the course of the investigation.
"The actions of Cpl. Braaksma documented in this investigation are completely unacceptable." said Police Chief Cliff Cook. "Taking home drug evidence and repeatedly mishandling evidence that could otherwise be used to help take criminals off the street can not be tolerated in the Vancouver Police Department." Chief Cook further states, "As Chief of Police I want to convey that this behavior is not representative of the many fine men and women who protect and serve the citizens of Vancouver with professionalism and pride. As part of the 2009 VPD Action Plan two of my top goals are to increase transparency and increase accountability. The citizens of Vancouver who place their confidence and trust in the Vancouver Police Department deserve nothing less."
After Cpl. Braaksma was notified of the allegations against him in February 2009, he filed a Tort Claim Notice with the City of Vancouver indicating he intended to file suit against the City. The Vancouver Police Department is resolute in its internal investigation process and findings, and in the disciplinary actions taken.
Replies to this message do not go back to the sender.
Go to http://FlashAlert.net/login.html to change or delete these messages.
