November 4, 2011 in News, City

Karl Thompson taken into custody

Verner, Kirkpatrick apologize for salute

Thomas Clouse The Spokesman-Review

Tags:Karl F. Thompson Jr.Otto Zehm

196 comments on this story so far. Add yours!

dkerns on November 04 at 10:29 a.m.
Would you expect anything else from the SPD?
Stand…salute…
Says a lot.
mikewsu on November 04 at 10:35 a.m.
Salute an officer on his way to jail. Nice Spokane, nice..
Hunterman on November 04 at 10:40 a.m.
Stand and salute? These cops must thing the klubber’s actions were ok. I will still think twice before buying a snickers bar in Spokane.
johnclarke on November 04 at 10:42 a.m.
Wow. Saluting a convicted criminal. How professional.
Scoutster on November 04 at 10:42 a.m.
I guess the peace officers agree that the prisons are full of people who don’t belong there.
Funny how that works.
Charlie on November 04 at 10:42 a.m.
Salute the convicted cop? Look out Spokane residents, you are going to pay.
crossfire on November 04 at 10:43 a.m.
I am appalled at the amount of people that viewed the video, let him have his day in court, and still think he did no wrong.
Now they’re saying the jurors were influenced.
Carl Oreskovich had an obligation to tell the judge what he saw in the hotel with the jurors and he never said one word. As an officer of the court he had that obligation. But instead he chose to be quiet about it and keep it as his ace in the hole in case there was a guilty verdict.
I am sick and tired of people we place our trust in not doing the right thing.
Slightlyworried on November 04 at 10:43 a.m.
I hope someone was taking down names of the saluting officers so we know were to begin when the mayor and police chief finally admit that the department needs a serious attitude adjustment and re-training.
crossfire on November 04 at 10:44 a.m.
@Charlie
Oh yes, sadly you’re absolutely right on that one.
another_perspective on November 04 at 10:45 a.m.
Lets see the pictures of the Koppers leaving the building.
Slightlyworried on November 04 at 10:46 a.m.
The good news with the saluting stunt is that the attorneys with the DOJ got a good first hand look at what they are dealing with as they go after the Zip Trip Eight. I hope the dude who put the unapproved mask over Otto’s face is up next.
Loudin on November 04 at 10:50 a.m.
Well, look on the bright side: If they’re saluting w/one hand, it’s one hand less they can use to taser and beat the innocent citizens of Spokane. Maybe the judge should have ordered that these hillbilly cops be cuffed and restrained like Otto was…it’s hard to salute when your hog-tied.
Stay classy and honorable, Sheepy SPD! Maybe at the next guard mount you could put black armbands on your uni’s and yellow ribbon magnets on your cruisers…you know, to really show us little people the “injustice” done to your violent buddy.
another_perspective on November 04 at 10:53 a.m.
Damn where is the hand pumping and the Jay Olsen high fives?
I’d go out and get a DUI and arrested just to be in the same cell with Karl.
Coeur d’Alene cops go out bar hopping.
Spokane cops go out Night Klubbing.
Albert on November 04 at 10:55 a.m.
sickening!
monkeyman on November 04 at 10:55 a.m.
“…was packed with police officers…”
Was this crowd from SPD? And if so, on paid time or did they take a vacation?
Blacksheep3 on November 04 at 10:59 a.m.
Any other felon would have been led out in handcuffs. But, because he’s a boy in blue he gets special treatment. Despicable!!
wdodd on November 04 at 11:02 a.m.
Wow unbelievable what the officers displayed in the court room. Mayor Verner and Kirkpatrick you definetley need to change this Police department soon. How stupid can they get? Not like grabbing the attention of the DOJ and the feds in this stupid inmature move by the officers. SPD is definetly got a rocky road ahead when saluting convicted felons heading off to jail!!
If i were an officer of this department i would be ashamed of the people i work for. What an embarrasment!!!
The_Seer on November 04 at 11:02 a.m.
slightlyworried: I don’t think “taking names” is necessary. Just visit the “We support Karl Thompson” Facebook page.
Thank you to the magistrate for once and for all showing our local LEO that they are not above the law and will be held accountable for their unlawful behavior.
To those who stood and applauded: Non-cooperation with evil is just as much a duty as cooperation with good. You will be weeded out of the ranks as well until there are none who stand and salute convicted felons. Do you stand and salute those you helped to convict? Well?
Truthhurts on November 04 at 11:10 a.m.
Three dozen SPD saluted a convicted criminal?
Why do they have jobs?
That is not “free speech,” that is a fundamental attack on their own core function as law enforcement.
Condon? Verner?
Why do those three dozen “officers” still have jobs?
selkirk on November 04 at 11:29 a.m.
Mayor Verner, how can we find “closure” when there are still Koppers on the force who believe Karl didn’t do anything wrong?
How can the healing process begin when those who are paid by us continually show that they believe they are above the law and should not be held accountable for their own actions?
Mayor Verner, how can you “fix” this attitude when the Koppers don’t respect you?
Mayor Verner, the only way you can answer these questions to our satisfaction is to resign!!!
johnclarke on November 04 at 11:30 a.m.
The_ Seer
To those who stood and applauded: Non-cooperation with evil is just as much a duty as cooperation with good. You will be weeded out of the ranks as well until there are none who stand and salute convicted felons.
Gonna have to say, probably not. Nothing will happen to these officers. Other than bad taste and an obvious lack of professionalism, what law or rule did they violate? Besides, thanks to their all powerful union the tail wags the dog around here.
Have to say again officers - really disappointing behavior. Your reputation is not exactly sparkling.
mikeln on November 04 at 11:30 a.m.
Glad I do not live in spokane. Tread lightly, people, it seems the police motto is now get the people not protect the people.
trustbutverify on November 04 at 11:31 a.m.
So they salute an officer who killed an innocent man and who just got sentenced to prison. Somehow I just knew that Spokane’s finest would do something stupid to embarrass us all. They have just shown that even after this clear cut verdict and huge sign that things are not well with SPD that they still don’t have a clue what their oath “to serve and protect” actually means. What a joke this entire department seems to be.
Well at least we did not get to see them give their notorious group fist pump like they did when their other fellow thug officer Jay Olsen got off scot-free after shooting an unarmed man in the head during his drunken off-duty chase from a bar at 2am.
So sad to see such stupid people say Otto should have just complied and just taken the beating. When all of the sudden and for no apparent reason some thug attacks you and starts beating you to the ground with his “special issue” baton and then continues with tasers, hog-tying and others ways to inflict pain onto you including sitting on your chest and placing a mask over your mouth so you can’t breathe, your body goes into “fight or flight” self protection mode and you can’t hold still. And any moving or spitting is what happened when a body is being killed and is dying. Oh so sorry, SPD if when you are killing me my body twitches and scares you. And if you consider my bottle of pop a weapon “the same as a brick” I will only carry around Dixie Cups so you don’t get scared.
The only the “excited delirium” I see is the SPD group mentality. Police are paid to protect their citizens and not be so quick to beat people (they should not even be rude to people too). They are not judges and if they are not sure about someone they should give people the benefit of the doubt. This would include sometimes erring on the side of caution. They make good money and this is part of the job. If they don’t want to have a job that can be somewhat dangerous sometimes then they should just leave. Now it seems that they want to change the job into one that they are able to do anything they want, even including homicide and the be able to lie about it or have their buddies let them go without consequences.
I feel nothing for Thompson, the other police who helped beat Otto, Spokane city hall, Steven Tucker and all others who either were part of this homicide or lied about it. Yes the coroner’s findings say “homicide”. They all deserve to lose their jobs and many of them go to jail also. Bully lying cops have now been forewarned………Maybe the feds can make some good come out of Otto’s ultimate sacrifice.
I feel most for Otto’s family and the good and great SPD officers in the force as I know that there are many of them in the SPD department. But it seems all you hear about is these self serving idiots acting the fool in public. Do they know how their actions come across? And do they even care about what the public thinks?
MrBloggy on November 04 at 11:32 a.m.
as long as they visit Karl at federal prison on Friends & Neighbors Pre-Release Transition and BBQ Day in 2017.
zelda on November 04 at 11:35 a.m.
It would be interesting to know how the rank and file really feel about this. I readily admit that what I know (or think I know) about police-force behavior comes from Wambaugh novels. But I’ve got to wonder if the cops who didn’t openly support Thompson might get a slower response from his/her fellow cops next time there’s an officer-in-need-assistance call.
Also, I wonder if all the LE posting on the Facebook page are Spokane cops. There could be officers from LAPD and other police forces posting comments as a show of solidarity.
Lewis on November 04 at 11:40 a.m.
how many of the saluting officers were on duty? instead of doing the job they are paid to do they salute a rogue cop?
with the Zehm family sitting right there? so all those that saluted do believe in murder by cop?
Julia72 on November 04 at 11:48 a.m.
Oh well, you got to remember that Spokane is right next door to Ideeho, Your cops salute this killer, while there are morons in Idaho that would happily salute Tim the killer McVey. Beating a human being to death with a club, now that’s really something to salute, gutter morals. terminal illness of most cops.
Shadedmuse on November 04 at 11:50 a.m.
FREE KARL THOOMPSON< HE IS NOT GUILTY. I hope Spokane police at jail leave the cell door open so karl can walk out of the Jail and head south of the Border to Argitina. I have a plane to get him their.
FREE KARL THOMPSON he is not guilty As a Lawyer I salute you Krl Thompson.
If Otto was Innocent he would of complied with police, but since fight Police he must be guilty of something, only the Guilty will fight and run from Police.
arliacne on November 04 at 11:51 a.m.
Finer said the show of support indicates that Spokane has a long way to go before law enforcement understands the perspective of the victim’s family.
Well said. Regardless of who takes the mayoral spot, there is a lot of work to due educating SPD and restoring citizen confidence.
Shadedmuse on November 04 at 11:51 a.m.
I’m Going on a Hunger strike until Karl thompson is free!!!!!!!!!
another_perspective on November 04 at 11:52 a.m.
Detective Larry Bowman, Randy Lesser and Officer Terry Preuninger
Email addresses are:
lbowman@spokanepolice.org
rlesser@spokanepolice.org
tpreuniger@spokanepolice.org
akirkpatrick@spokanepolice.org
I wonder if Karl is going to get his email in P.C.
kthompson@spokanepolice.org or his new one KarlKlubber@spokanecountyjail.org
Remember to be respectful and dont use works like liar, coverup, whitewash, pigs. Well its ok to use those words as long as they are all in the same sentence.
arliacne on November 04 at 11:53 a.m.
Shademuse: “As a Lawyer I salute you Krl Thompson.”
You’re no lawyer.
ChefGus/ John Olsen on November 04 at 11:54 a.m.
Sorta says it all i guess…. this is worse than i thought/felt….Lets get a statement from the Mayor and the Chief on this behaviour please/?? john
terrymr on November 04 at 11:56 a.m.
from KXLY’s twitter :
@SpokesmanReview Erik said one of your reporters was ‘elbowed’ - his words - by a #SpokanePD officer on the way out of the courtroom. #zehm
Shadedmuse on November 04 at 11:56 a.m.
Come on You crazy Otto Lovers go ahead and flame your hate mail to Spokane Cops and I will sit back and watch them come and arrest you and throw you in Jail, and as a Lawyer dont be phoning me to represent you.
FREE KARL THOMPSON I’m on a hunger strike until he is free
ChefGus/ John Olsen on November 04 at 11:57 a.m.
Just re read the article….. “Four Dozen” stood and saluted… yeah check the time cards… Come on Chief K…. step up to the mike again about “healing”.. yeah… lets hear what cha got? john
CougarGold on November 04 at 11:59 a.m.
arliacne@11:53 - Please don’t feed the trolls.
inflames17 on November 04 at 12:07 p.m.
If you read the Klubber Thompson Facebook page, you will see that we “normal” people just don’t understand what their job is like and that “we” don’t have to wear bulletproff vests to work. I would like to remind the SPD that this is their CHOSEN profession! You are not forced to do this. If its so horrible, find a regular job where you have to tell the truth and you are held accountable for your actions. We shouldn’t need the FBI to do this for us. Also, PLEASE stop saying that you have the deadliest job in the world. Not even in the top 10. In fact, statistically speaking, being a security guard is considered more dangerous. If you don’t believe me, its easy to look up and find the info.Top 10 compiled by The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is:
1. Fisherman
2. Logger
3. Aircraft Pilot
4. Farmer/Rancher
5. Roofer
6. Structural Iron/Steel Worker
7. Refuse Collector
8. Industrial Machinery Maintenance Worker
9. Truck Driver
10. Construction Worker
paddleboard9 on November 04 at 12:07 p.m.
Every officer that did that should be fired. They saluted a man who beat a person they swore to protect to death. They did this distasteful act in front of the man’s family. Shame on you Spokane police department, you are a disgrace to the men and women who wear a uniform and risk there lives everyday. You are nothing more than a group of jack boot thugs and I hope and pray that the family sues your department into bankruptcy. Disgraceful everyone of you.
arliacne on November 04 at 12:14 p.m.
CougarGold on November 04 at 11:59 a.m.
arliacne@11:53 - Please don’t feed the trolls.
Oh….alright. Geez, can’t have any fun around here.
Ed Byrnes on November 04 at 12:14 p.m.
This is very frightening to me as a civilian.
I trust this LEO behavior makes it clear why so many of us civilians are asserting our right to oversee law enforcement, since neither the SPD or city leaders seem to care for us, so civilians must now create an independent oversight process and operate it with fellow civilians.
If even one LEO spoke out against the offenders behavior that led to his conviction, or against the behavior of LEOs like what we saw this morning, then one could be more hopeful. I am certain there are LEOs who clearly see the wrong in these things, it’s just that they are too intimidated to speak out, so us civilians must create the climate that is more encouraging toward justice.
Ed Byrnes
de3 on November 04 at 12:14 p.m.
As of today, I will no longer smile and wave at police officers. Through their actions, they have lost our respect.
Auko on November 04 at 12:28 p.m.
What appalling behavior by this so-called group of professionals. I thought their job was to protect and serve. It seems all they want to do is protect their own. Their actions in front of the public and Zehm family are truly disturbing.
The_Seer on November 04 at 12:29 p.m.
zelda: Remember “Rosco Rules” from “The Choirboys?”
Wasn’t his favorite move to make people “do the chicken?”
And then there was the character “Tuna Can Tommy.” Who could forget such icons of modern literature?
gmgoody on November 04 at 12:31 p.m.
Oh dear God! I couldn’t believe the story I read… dozens of SPD standing and saluting a convict??? Unbelievable…Yes we have a LONG way to go - they just don’t get it do they…. Sad, sad day for citizens.
healinhand on November 04 at 12:31 p.m.
I`m sure he will get Saluted by his new Inmate friends…. and will be shown the same compassion by BUBBA
EthicsinLE on November 04 at 12:31 p.m.
It is disturbing that the majority of the bloggers speak of what they THINK they know about the law, police tactics, human behavior, officer safety, etc. - clueless! I would venture to say that 99% of you have not taken the time to read the police reports or evidence in regards to the recent incidents (Thompson, Creach, Dodd, etc.), yet you form an opinion based on the media, which has a long history of bias against law enforcement and inaccurate, deceitful information. How about you take the time to go down, get a copy of the entire investigation, read it, THEN form an opinion. Anyone who bases their opinion on the SR and other media sources is an idiot and has no business saying anything. Get off your whiney butt, go down, get copies of the reports, THEN form a decision, otherwise you look ignorant and have no credibility.

As I read the blogs, it is obvious there are some who are anti-police no matter what the facts are or what the evidence is. No matter what happens, there is no pleasing these people. Some people just don’t like the police or authority. This crowd only represents about 10 of the bloggers from what I’ve read thus far. Many of this group post under several names.
I am not passing judgment on the Thompson case as I have not reviewed the investigation. The media shows a 5 second clip of the store video and you jump to conclusions – how about the period before and after what the media chose to show? The media, especially the SR, has a history of showing and printing what is selective, inflammatory and what will generate ratings and sell papers. Sure, there are things that could have been done differently, but when you’re the actual officer involved in a situation that is fluid and occurs in seconds, you do the best you can. This is a tragic situation, yes. I believe Ofc. Thompson did the best he could in a fast moving situation based on what he knew at the time. The attorneys, anti-police bloggers, self proclained “experts”, etc. have years to arm chair quarter back and consult with “expert witnesses”, but officers have seconds to observe the threat, make a decision and react. I do agree that some of the things that have come out during trial are troubling (the number of officers who “do not recall”, plead the 5th, inconsistent testimony, possible altered evidence, etc.), but this is more geared towards the department and administration, not Ofc. Thompson. For those of you who think you know it all, apply to be an officer and you will get the reality of what the job and threats are. Stop basing what you THINK you know based on TV shows. To Ofc. Thompson, I thank you for your years of service not only to the PD, but the military and country. What occurred is a travesty of justice. I do believe Ofc. Thompson has good grounds for appeal. What about the 2 jurors who were caught sleeping during the trial and other jurors who were caught watching TV covering Mr. Zehm?
Birdog on November 04 at 12:34 p.m.
Sounds like the SPD just doesn’t get it…they don’t give a hoot about Otto’s death, they are pissed because 12 “common folk” found Thompson guilty in a court of law. Reminds me of Sheriff De Bartello who killed his wife.years ago…..just one abberation in his life, and now he’s paying for it. My thoughts of the SPD have taken on a new low…..it is definately the boys club…..they just don’t get it.
Shadedmuse on November 04 at 12:36 p.m.
Yhe Jury was threatend and Intimidated by Federal agents into a guilty verdict.
Free Karl Thompson, I’m on a hunger strike until he is free.
EthicsinLE on November 04 at 12:38 p.m.
As to Ron the EX cop, this is nothing more than a man who likes to hear himself speak. Ron, where is your “Friends of Mark Fuhrman” website? Funny how you took this down after the Creach case when you were trying to get your name out there as some self-proclaimed “expert witness” and promote your PI business. I can provide your domain details if it helps refresh your memory Ron. What’s the matter Ron, having this site would look bad when you’re a paid “expert” witness? I still have your site provider details and info. Any officer who would associate themselves with Mark Fuhrman, a convicted perjurer and documented racist, is a disgrace. To me, that speaks of Ron’s character and ethics. I know Ron, he is a very pompous, arrogant, self-serving person. Anyone notice how he is pimping his new private investigations business on this site? Notice how he was listing his recently acquired Washington PI number and PI business name on his postings? Pretty self-serving Ron, but expected from you. As Ron passes judgment, keep in mind he has NO officer involved shooting experience, other than “canvassing” a neighborhood, which patrol officers do. He has never worked major crimes, crimes persons, officer involved shootings, etc.. He worked check and computer crime cases. For Ron to represent himself as some self-proclaimed OIS / use of force expert is an injustice to those who look to him for help. I know Ron well, we had a nickname for people like him – ROD – Retired On Duty. Nothing more pathetic than a retired cop who can’t give up the job. This will make you a bitter, sorry old man Ron. Time to move on and put the job behind you. How about when you fought AGAINST drug testing for OIS incidents Ron? Check out the Riverside Press, it’s widely reported. I can provide the link if you need it. Hypocrite.
I find it comical that some of you whine about what color the uniforms are, what type of baton was used, how the SWAT team looks, an officers weight, what colors the cars are, etc. These are petty, meritless issues. Ofc. Thompson had a straight stick, your typical baton, just made of a different wood. WOW, what a HUGE DEAL that is! I thank all officers for their service and willingness to risk their lives for us all. Ofc. Thompson, I SALUTE YOU!
I think Kirkpatrick has run the department into the ground and is a disgrace. I would love to see SCSO take over SPD. SPD admin. could learn a lot from Sherriff Knezovich and credibility would be restored. I could go on about Kirkpatrick, but won’t waste my time as she had no business wearing the badge.
bripple37 on November 04 at 12:40 p.m.
I’m not sure where and how the SPD became such a collective of arrogant, brutal creeps. I guess the culture has evolved over the years under the wonderful thing they call the “Guild”. Undoubtedly, there are officers in their ranks who are there for the right reasons, and with the right temperament. Unfortunately, they cannot separate from the “blue shield” or unspoken code of silence when it comes to covering their own butts! I know two officers I have come across in social circles. When the topic came up, they both simply said that, “Otto was just another scumbag”……
I was shocked! An innocent, handicapped man is erroneously beaten to death by an armed gang, and their answer is, “oh well, one less scumbag”…..
Now we hear these guys are saluting their buddy, even in the face of all evidence to the contrary. It just shows, yet again, the utter disconnect of the SPD from their publicly granted mandate. They are not above the law!
johnclarke on November 04 at 12:41 p.m.
yet you form an opinion based on the media
No, I formed an opinion based on the video evidence, and not the “5 second clip.” Why would I form an opinion based on police reports, particularly from a person that was just convicted of lying ? Clearly this group off officers will say or do anything to protect each other - including falsify reports.
And…let’s see. You have a total of two posts and they are both on this story. What, did you create your ID like 3 minutes ago, officer ?
armedcitizen on November 04 at 12:44 p.m.
Class act that SPD. I’ve seen more professional acting cops on Reno 911.
Byrdie714 on November 04 at 12:46 p.m.
Not only we need to get Kirkpatrick out of office, but Mary Vertner, and Rocky Trippedi.
They had done enough damage to Spokane.
DouglasF on November 04 at 12:47 p.m.
I am glad as all H– I don’t live in Spokane. The last vestiges of respect for law enforcement, especially in Spokane just went down the toilet which is where most of the thug, NAZI, Gestapo officers with guns belong. They are supposed to derive their power and authority from the people, well, I think from all but a handful of these postings, we’ve just withdrawn that authority.
As a student of history, this along with the economic climate, the Teas Baggers and the Occupy movement, this country, sooner or later is going to get an enema in the terms of an armed insurrection. Is that what the various levels of govt. want?
Byrdie714 on November 04 at 12:48 p.m.
The actions of the police—protecting their own by claiming that Otto was a ‘scumbag’ have proven false.
SPD’s finest have proven themselves to be the bigger scumbags! Their actions speak louder than their words.
Orphan on November 04 at 12:48 p.m.
Four dozen Spokane cops do not believe in the justice system. We need to clean house at SPD
DHF on November 04 at 12:51 p.m.
What a sick display of Spokane’s finest. You the boys in blue might think different if that was your son and was killed for no reason. If I were the Mayor and had the power I would fire every one of you as you are a disgrace to the uniform that you wear an an embarassment to the citizens that you are susposed to protect . I am glad that I dont live in your City.
johnclarke on November 04 at 12:53 p.m.
I agree Orphan. I think it’s time for an FBI investigation.
The_Seer on November 04 at 1:02 p.m.
EthicsinLe: I have undertaken all the actions you requested while researching this case for a documentary film I am producing. They all point to Thompson’s guilt and an overt cover-up conducted by people who just aren’t all that intelligent. That’s why they got caught: Because they are/were stupid. Like most criminals.
Nice to see you using that A.A. from S.C.C. in “law enforcement…”
wdodd on November 04 at 1:02 p.m.
Heres a song dedicated to Karl and his unprofessional supporters who have disgraced the uniform they wear.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffHcGlF0xDw
katieh4389 on November 04 at 1:05 p.m.
Shadedmuse…..maybe your hunger strike will kill you of your stupididty. If you are a so called “lawyer” they obviously did not send you through grammar class.
misjustice on November 04 at 1:10 p.m.
Convicted FELON, in CUSTODY!
Love it, love it,l ove it!
mattsuth on November 04 at 1:16 p.m.
What a horrible police department….to salute a convicted felon and to be able to put on that uniform…another sad day for spokane!
force_vector on November 04 at 1:20 p.m.
EthicsinLE said : “Many of this group post under several names”.
I am interesting in hearing who you think these people are, and what evidence you have to support that.
Shadedmuse on November 04 at 1:21 p.m.
Besides a Hunger strike I will refuse to Sower and Change clothes. and Shave until Karl Thompson is free.
Loudin on November 04 at 1:25 p.m.
Do they serve doughnuts in prison?
Just wondering…
therailroader on November 04 at 1:27 p.m.
Glad to read that so many of Spokane’s finest could attend the jailing session. Now that they no longer have to investigate burglaries, it appears that extra time exists for them. Wonder how many drove down to the Tri-Cities on Spokane’s dime as well! The inability to see the crime committed from the victim’s perspective only shows that current SPD tactics won’t change and unfortunately other innocent citizens will be either maimed or killed. Whatever the city ends up paying to the Zelm family should be taken soley from the SPD budget!
zelda on November 04 at 1:30 p.m.
The_Seer — Yes, those were memorable characters. Wambaugh has a new novel out. Didn’t know he was still around.
trustbutverify on November 04 at 1:36 p.m.
EthicsLE, In one of your posts you makes some points and it is good that you see some of the “troubling” issues we all see. But it seems the police see things differently that the vast majority of people see it and do not realize who exactly is the boss. Why is that? You are hired by us to protect us if you don’t want the job the way the majority want it ran then quit complaining and do something else. When you try and change the job into something the minority want you are creating a dysfunctional police force and something where no one is happy. Here is an idea, obey the law and tell the truth.
And come on, once someone is hog-tied can they really still be a threat? Blows to the head immediately, sitting on him and masking him obviously restricting his breathing and the lies to cover it up are all absolutely inexcusable. Should have just came clean, told the truth and owned up to it. I think you would be surprised at how much less disgust and punishment Thompson would have to deal with.

I don’t know, something about asking for and getting special permission to have a unique baton……it just kind of shows something odd. Like maybe enjoying the use of that baton too much? Kind of like when Dirty Harry said he needs a 44 magnum instead of the 38 all other cops use because the bullets might bounce off the windshield. We all knew the real reason why he wanted a more powerful weapon…….he liked really hurting people.
And is the standard issue baton really not good enough? Did he really need a different baton? I also think he was stupid to put his name on a request like that. I hope you are a better cop than Karl became. As I said I feel for all the good police officers out there as they are victims too.
And just so you know, Dirty Harry was an entertaining movie but the character was a horrible reckless cop who never would have made it.
Tim_Loe on November 04 at 1:40 p.m.
As a victim of the Spokane Police Depts. injustice I can say from personal experience that I expected nothing less from them. Most of them are not worthy of a security job but as Sgt. McCabe in Internal affairs told me directly, “I can assure you with 110% accuracy, there is no corruption in the Spokane Police Dept.” That coming from the man who is supposed to investigate these crimes. Shortly after I opened up my investigations there was an article written by Meghan Cuniff in which Lt. Meidl stated that I had opened up 8 internal affairs investigations that were all unsubstantiated. The truth is that he knew of at least 2 that were substantiated only days before the article was released. In fact, they either changed the nature of the investigations on me and my fiance’s claims or they botched the incestigations in order to hide much of the wrong doing.
SPD, you are a bad joke at best and deserve nothing from the people in your city. $55,000,000 of Spokane City tax funds between SPD and the SIU and you cannot investigate property crimes? What do you do with all the money you rape from the tax payers and all the money you generate from illegal search and seizures, private security contracts and all the traffic tickets you write? From the sounds of it you give yourself better training to teach us how to “uphold the law.” - Thank you officer Barbrady (South Park).
Scoutster on November 04 at 1:43 p.m.
EthicsinLE…
You’re not helping your cause.
riverlaw on November 04 at 1:44 p.m.
None of our elected officials or candidates will sign the polive accountability pledge. How can we expect any change?
Shadedmuse on November 04 at 1:45 p.m.
Their were some SPD that werent at the Federal Building in Downtown Spokane,
I know this because i saw a lady drive into a Traffic standard at NW and Ash and three cops were their to take her to the Spokane County Drunk Dank Tank Jail. To be drunk hat early in the AM You need to attend a Meeting.
The_Seer on November 04 at 1:45 p.m.
jadedruse threatened: “Besides a Hunger strike I will refuse to Sower and Change clothes.
Let me know how I’ll be able to tell the difference….
shadedmuse is not a lawyer. He’s that guy with the sun glasses walking next to Karl the Klubber whenever he entered or exited the federal court house.
brianrbreen on November 04 at 1:47 p.m.
@Ron_the_Cop
CO is being paid from CJA funds administered by the federal court system, at rates considerably less then what he would get from a private pay. In this district the vouchers are securitized for every penny, and I know from experience, my interaction with Mr. Jameson (unlike some of the Districts, is not allowed). Ultimately the Judges approve the expenditures. What people don’t realize is that CO could have walked away, but didn’t, and he showed the character he has by sticking with it. He knew full well he would be subjected to the ire of people that just don’t understand. What the hell do people expect a good lawyer to do, other then advocate the best they can for their client. From what I have read I can’t see anything a “slime bag” would do, he is doing his damn job.
Somewhere on this blog someone made the comment about the “Innocence Project”. Something I know far more about then anyone here. You know what, in so many of those cases you can go back and look at how unbelievably bad those innocent people were represented. Thompson has one hell of an advantage he has great representation. I guarantee you that one of the good appeal points will not be he didn’t have adequate representation.
When this is over, CO, Durkin, and Ahmed, will likely sit down have a beer, and argue how good they were. Despite the posturing it all comes down to the evidence.
I want Karl Thompson to have the very best representation he can have. The most dedicated and strong defense he can bring. Then as far as an appeal point is concerned good luck.
If people really want to attack lawyers doing their job ethically then take a good look at Rocco, and as you know I’m pretty much outspoken as far as that is concerned. People can collect my posts, make every effort they think will help them to shut me up. Ain’t going to happen as they well know.
I want CO to kick ass as much as he can, and when it’s done. I don’t want anyone coming back and saying this guy wasn’t represented to the hilt. I know there will be some dumb Sh&ts that will say he never got a fair trial.
Yes, Thompson is headed to do some time, it won’t be hard time, it will be at Camp Cookie, as every lawyer in town knows. My biggest concern is this, everyone should take a good look at the people he has taken with him because he is nothing more then a coward trying to save himself, and tell me what that says. When I see a rookie cop saying this guy is the greatest thing since sliced bread I cringe. When I see how he was able to line up the ducks to perpetuate his desire to be Chief and was to a certain extent successful, despite my warnings, I know there are problems. When I see a Chief of Police nearly crying because her golden boy (Thompson) is going to go to prison, I know in my heart she could care less about him and her only concern is for herself. The verdict is in, you are done, it ain’t going to work, and it’s over. Step out nicely now to try and save at least some respect. If you are going to teach take what you have learned here and apply it to what real cops should know.
When I see, a cop charged under federal criminal statues who was given an administrative position at full pay( god if only people knew), and the defense in a law suit against the Chief and the City is that we always suspend people without pay if there are criminal charges pending. I’m wondering how that fits with Thompson.
I guess cowards are cowards, and they will always be there. I’d just like to see some more balls on the part of cops that got taken. No more smiling kissing arse and hoping that it will go away.
@The_Seer
Please correct my then and than mistakes.
The_Seer on November 04 at 1:57 p.m.
brian: I’m not a grammar cop. I just thought it was salient to delineate your mistakes on a thread where you boasted about attending better schools than Doug Clark. All in good fun and hopefully taste as well.
But as a teacher, maybe I can help: “Than” indicates choice, preference, or comparison ie. “I like pie better THAN cake for desert.” “Then” is a time indicator, ie. Thompson was found guilty, THEN sentenced to eight years in federal prison.
Hopefully that helps.
brianrbreen on November 04 at 1:59 p.m.
@John Olsen
I knew it was bad, and a lot of us did. Just don’t know what to do.
wdodd on November 04 at 2:13 p.m.
what does CO mean?
brianrbreen on November 04 at 2:32 p.m.
@John Olsen
As a Marine to a Soldier, just to gain some understanding. They wouldn’t make a pimple on a Private’s ass.
The_Seer on November 04 at 2:34 p.m.
jdodd: CO is being used to abbreviate the name of Thompson’s principle defense attorney, Carl Oresovich.
LostInWyoming on November 04 at 2:35 p.m.
Otto,I salute you! Not some crooked clubber cop maniac. Thoughts and prayers to Otto’s friends and family.God Bless.I hope they can put Otto’s final words on his tombstone,for all the world to see for eternity. “All I wanted was a snickers!” Rest in peace.
ChefGus/ John Olsen on November 04 at 2:39 p.m.
Brian… i just woke up from a nap after my first post…( old guys take a nap every day)… i did see the KREM news at 12:00 and they have a video tape of all or most of the “cops” coming out of the courthouse…. if there were no cameras in the court house to nail them…the KREM video at least will identify them.
Conduct Unbecoming would get ya bounced out of the Army… wondering what your take is on this…although another story just posted is that Kirkpatrick lost the law suit to Mehring and we citizens are coughing up 700K plus…. best j
brianrbreen on November 04 at 2:40 p.m.
@Seer
I was kidding, and I know you are right about then and than. But I think you are still understanding of where I’m at.
I’m not so sure you aren’t Spokane Hutchinson reincarnated. She used to give me sh#t about that all the time. When I’m not sure, I’ll replace the “e” or “a” with a dollar sign, if that’s okay.
BTW: If I forget scr$w you! :)
ChefGus/ John Olsen on November 04 at 2:41 p.m.
Anyone know the laws/rules on non concealed carry? j
Ron_the_Cop on November 04 at 2:41 p.m.
EthicsinLE,
I know your venting. You’re thinking that Ofc. Thompson was unjustly wronged for doing his duty that we all were sworn to do. When I was much younger and just starting out I would probably have thought the same way and would support who I looked up to. Ours is a very difficult job to do, sometimes requiring split second decisions. We will make mistakes. We all do that’s life. We must learn however from our mistakes and move on.
Yes, many citizens don’t understand our job and what it takes to survive on the street. Many citizens’ knowledge and expectations of the police come from fictionalized and or distorted portrayals/reports by the media. It’s easy to circle the wagons and to withdraw into ourselves as them against us. But this is a profession we have chosen and in the end it is our job to serve and to protect the citizens. Our rules of engagement are much different than the military in an active war zone but sometimes we lose our direction in whom our mission is to serve and to protect.
I feel sorry for Ofc. Thompson and his family after his long service but I also feel sorry for the family of Otto Zehm too. Ofc. Thompson made mistakes that night of his own doing. However what’s not permitted in our profession is lie about it. As a two-term police union president I understand the frustrations that the Guild has with Chief Kirkpatrick and her command staff. In order to secure a political solution you need the support of the community. The actions of some officers and the Guild in the Zehm case are not conducive to building that relationship.
I will be happy to match my professional training, experience and investigative experience with you any time but this is not the place. All I can say is welcome to the big leagues where the feds are playing hardball. Unfortunately Steve Tucker and police leadership have not done the rank and file any favors by shielding them and not raising the professional bar in these OIS/OID investigations by not asking the hard questions that should have been asked.
Look I’m an outsider here. Far be it for me to criticize. I will leave it to one of your own, Brian Breen, a retired SPD major crimes detective to call a shovel a shovel -
http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2011/nov/04/defense-to-seek-new-trial/?comments#c367301
http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2011/nov/03/guilty/?comments#c366994
And from a former Spokane County Prosecutor:
http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2011/aug/27/case-raises-questions/
My issues are with our elected leaders that have failed both the citizens and the police rank and file for not correcting ineffectual, incompetent and in some cases corrupt police leadership.
I don’t wish to cask stones without offering a pragmatic way forward. See my comment in today’s S-R editorial thread:
NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW
… My simple solution is for the citizens to demand that the US Attorney’s Office expand its current criminal investigation to include and prosecute any who were complicit and or aided/abetted in the overt cover-up of Otto Zehm’s death for obstruction of justice.
Secondly they demand the US DOJ Office of Civil Rights initiate a civil pattern and practice investigation of SPD as is currently being done with Seattle PD. This has a chance of changing the culture of the leadership of SPD.
And lastly and most importantly demand that all officer involved shootings and deaths (OIS/OIDs) be reviewed by an inquest panel presided over by a superior court judge under the rule of law and evidence before a random jury from the jury pool. This can be done immediately without any meet and confer requirements with the Guild. This more than anything would bring about the necessary organization, behavior and cultural change within SPD. . .
septdrmz on November 04 at 2:50 p.m.
I must further ponder the correlation between the number of shootings by the SPD and their salute to a man who abused his position of power. Cowards. I once had to pick up a friend who was placed under arrest and spent time in the Spokane County Jail. It was my first time being to that place - but the way I was treated for being there was horrid. One employee made the comment on her way out (she was off) and said, “I can’t believe there are actually people out here waiting for the crap sitting in jail here.” Again, looking at their vision statements and comparing that to the ludicrous number of shootings by the SPD and her comment gave me a whole new insight to the judicial system here in Spokane! These officers who stood and saluted this officer - convey the ideology of the Spokane Police Dept.!
BlondeSquawker on November 04 at 2:54 p.m.
Guess he shouldn’t have brained that poor guy.
BlondeSquawker on November 04 at 2:57 p.m.
From one of Thompson’s admirers on FB:
Arthur D Washington Jr
“Last night I was in a bar and some loudmouth was spouting off about Karl and how he deserved to go to jail for murder. I didn’t say anything, I just stuck to my group of friends and sipped my diet coke…… But guess who got a DUI last night! That was a pleasure.”
Police profiling. Someone needs to look into this.
Full_disclosure on November 04 at 3:04 p.m.
This just in from our city leaders, via KHQ:
Mayor Verner and Police Chief Kirkpatrick have released the following joint statement:
“We have acknowledged the pain that many of our officers feel as a result of the Thompson verdict, but it has been widely reported to us that the courtroom behavior of some officers, though protected as free speech, does not reflect the values we stand for. It clearly was insensitive to the friends and family of Otto Zehm, and for that, we apologize. We had previously directed that officers could not be in the courtroom while on duty. Still, on duty or not, we expect our officers—because of their position in the community—to live up to a high professional standard.”
terrymr on November 04 at 3:07 p.m.
Really ? I don’t think there’s much case history supporting court room demonstrations as “protected speech”. The general public gets slapped with contempt if their cellphone as much as beeps.
another_perspective on November 04 at 3:12 p.m.
Well my pops said “one rotten apple spoils the whole barrel”.
Maybe we should send Karl the Symplicity pattern for Martha’s shawls?
jeffinspok on November 04 at 3:14 p.m.
I really do not see the issue here. A group of people who believe a man is innocent, stood and recognized that with respect. The issue at hand is not if Officer Thompson “murdered” someone, that is silly. It was if he used excessive force….those who saluted him feel as though he did not and showed those feelings. They seem to have the right to do so. This is America.
I think that all this baloney about a entire force being corrupt is really showing the lack of intelligent dialogue here. When we step to a level to discredit every man and woman on that police department, it is absurd.
If Thompson did or did not use excessive force that is a matter that can be viewed differently, and through that I do not see the police on here name calling. What I see is people painting a broad brush against a entire entity…..and that my friends may cause more hurt and more issues in community than necessary.
There is a better way to handle this people, lets not detract from ourselves as a community any more than necessary.
Orphan on November 04 at 3:25 p.m.
John go to open carry.com. I. Am orphan there too in the WA part of the forum
meyerlansky on November 04 at 3:54 p.m.
I would really think twice now about EVER stopping when blue lights are flashing behind me. I think if this ever happened to me, I would keep driving and call 911 to inform them that I do not feel safe enough to stop.
I no longer trust the police.
It is so sad that it has come to this.
zelda on November 04 at 4:04 p.m.
Looks like contempt of court to me. Or some sort of mutiny. Are they planning to put Anne Kirkpatrick in a rowboat with a compass and a bag of hardtack?
City officials really need to lose the group therapy language and deal with this contemptuous, disrespectful misbehavior. Otherwise the SPD is a law unto itself.
richie on November 04 at 4:05 p.m.
I have always supported law enforcement. I live in a rough part of town and I am glued to my scanner every time a patrol car screams by my house. This gives me a pretty good window to what officers deal with on a daily (and nightly) basis. That said, what happened to Otto was a disgrace to the department. I heard the story the officers were telling, and actually believed that he probably deserved it. THEN I SAW THE VIDEO. Apparently the jury saw the same thing I did…THE TRUTH. That is all that was needed for me to change my mind forever. Nothing on here, or anywhere else (except all of the lying by SPD and city leaders) has had any influence on my opinion that badge number 5O5 massively screwed up. And yes, Otto’s innocence does matter to me. EthicsinLE <cough><cough>, you should be proud of your chief, she is with you on 5O5’s innocence, she just has the class to not openly salute it in front of a dead INNOCENT mans family. I have a chance soon to leave this great city I was born and raised in……after hearing about the salute, to be forever known as “The giant slap in the face of the citizens of Spokane by the rank and file of the SPD”, I think my family and I family will be leaving.
johnclarke on November 04 at 4:08 p.m.
@jeffinspok
I really do not see the issue here. A group of people who believe a man is innocent, stood and recognized that with respect.
Oh look, another brand new ID with two postings. Hello officer
.
The “issue” is the man is now a convicted criminal. What makes him different from any other criminal. So, we have police officers that are paid by us folks in Spokane - (apparently some on the clock) that side with a law breaker. Does that make sense to you ?
Even ifby some miracle the guy was found innocent, Otto Zehm can’t be found alive.
ManleyPointer on November 04 at 4:12 p.m.
Seems to me these folks have a right to their opinions and a right to express them. Contempt of court? Not so much, since at the point the action occurred court had been adjourned. It might have become an issue had the police drawn their weapons and forcibly freed the defendant.
I agree with the jury verdict, based on what I’ve read and seen. But that doesn’t mean that EVERYONE has to agree.
And Mr. Lansky? I wouldn’t advise that you adopt your proposed response to a police stop. Seems like you’d be asking for more trouble than you might be avoiding, all things considered.
The_Seer on November 04 at 4:16 p.m.
jeffinspok: Maybe I can help you understand why citizens might have “a problem” with police officers acting unprofessionally while supporting a convicted felon.
Police officers are the “tip of the spear” for the justice system. They want us to believe their inquiries which lead to the incarceration of other citizens is untainted, that we can trust the system. How are we expected to have faith in the uprightness and honesty of our justice system when they openly show it such contempt? And this is not an isolated incident in this case, they’ve fought the feds at every step. Do I need to find the article where the officer stated a U.S. Attorney could “pack sand” before he said anything before a grand jury that would be injurious to Thompson? It might also be true that those who appeared for the grand jury then violated federal law by revealing their testimony to the city attorney to be used in the pending civil suit.
It’s a big deal. They don’t think a thing needs to change in their department. They could not be more wrong and will discover that soon.
terrymr nailed it. Contempt of court is not protected speech and it appears they violated an order from a superior at the same time.
It’s a big deal.
brianrbreen on November 04 at 4:25 p.m.
@John
With all due respect. I never made your rank(even though at times I was pretty rank)
You don’t try and take people and hang them by the balls. You understand that even though they have never really been there, or done that, the were ingrained out of boot, and when they went to their unit sometimes it got worse. So if you are a leader you take a kid like Pruninger and you say to him after reading his testimony out loud. Is this really the way it is. Then you try and understand his response in your own mind, and make a decision. The same is true of Moses and others. In my unit Moses would be transferred to non-combat, and would pass out C-Rations, to real troops. The same thing is true of Ferguson. Before anyone mentions it including her sister, she did get an SPD Purple Heart for getting shot in the ankle. A whole nother story.
Then what you do, if you know full well all of the problem children that are there, so you try and figure out how to keep them away from the impressionable Privates. Sometimes that’s a challege.
You know in your unit you have some article 15s. sometimes that can be a good thing depending on what it involved, other times it’s not.
I guess the biggest question in my mind and perhaps others. is if the feds get a conviction on McIntyre for perjury does that mean there was in fact an attempt at a cover-up. Will she get a salute, or ultimately does the real truth come out.
As I’m typing, I learn that the jury in the Mehring case awarded $700,000.00 to Jay Mehring, likely plus attorney fees. Most people won’t understand that, I do, and there will be another.
Another thing I noticed is who has been quoted now on these issues. We will see!
EthicsinLE on November 04 at 4:32 p.m.
Many of you condemn the officers for saluting Ofc. Thompson. I can guarantee that if your son, daughter, brother or sister was in court for whatever offense, you would be there to support them – even if they did something wrong. Ofc. Thompson does deserve a degree of support, he served our country, Vietnam veteran and 40 years of law enforcement. Some have said the officers were being paid to be there. None of them were on the clock, they were all on their own time.
John Clarke, just curious, have you taken the time to go down and get copies of the reports for the incidents you comment on? If not, then yes, you are basing your opinion on the local media reporting and bloggers. As to Kirkpatrick, she needs to go and should have been fired long ago. Her “leadership” and what she has done to SPD is disgraceful.
Pigrobin on November 04 at 4:40 p.m.
Maybe the SPD’s demonstration is protected speech but it certainly was insensitive to the Zehm’s and the community at large. It showed a deep misunderstanding of how most people are looking at this sad event. I believe the majority of the Spokane police force is doing good work and strives to protect and defend our community, but this whole sordid case looks bad. It looks bad from inside and out. Things must change and the change needs to start at the top and the good majority needs to be led by people who understand how far the SPD’s standing has sunk in the community. My first recommendation would be for anybody in SPD to stay of these kinds of forums. It does no good and only incites the community. Just do your job well and hope for good leadership in the near future.
johnclarke on November 04 at 4:44 p.m.
No, I don’t need to go anywhere to read anything. The man has been judged according to the law. I have my own opinion, based on the video evidence, and oh yes the fact that an innocent man is dead. Not only was the guy beaten down and tasered, they essentially suffocated him.
Tell you what officer, you now imagine your son, daughter, brother or sister at the store minding their own business, and then they are beaten, hog tied and suffocated by full grown men sitting on their backs.
You can keep the whole “service to the country” thing. That changes nothing. Plenty of us have served, thank you very much. In fact, that whole indoor salute thing rubs me the wrong way. Police officers are not in the military, as much as they would like to think they are.
johnclarke on November 04 at 4:47 p.m.
ManleyPointer on November 04 at 4:12 p.m.
Seems to me these folks have a right to their opinions and a right to express them.
Disagree. The police should have shown a higer(er) degree of professionalism. An innocent man is dead.
terryalan on November 04 at 4:50 p.m.
Being present to support someone is one thing but saluting them right in front of the injured party’s family is low and disgraceful. I doubt anybody is upset about the presence, Just the disrespect shown to the actual injured party.
Why would the police reports be useful? If they are willing to lie in person, why would a paper copy be any better?
Thayne on November 04 at 5:00 p.m.
I’m not sure I agree that Klubber Karl had to make a split second decision. It took him 2.5 seconds to approach Otto and start beating him. Why didn’t he go in the doors and observe Otto, while not letting anyone enter the store and instruct those in the store to leave? In the video, Otto was the only person at the back of the store. He knew he had backup coming. (Those that weren’t watching the GU game while on duty). Same as today, how many LEOs do we have? How many were supposed to be on patrol or other duties? It’s a good thing another innocent person didn’t need to shot today.
BlondeSquawker on November 04 at 5:01 p.m.
How would the cops like it if the general public went out and saluted the bagpipers at a cop’s funeral with their middle fingers? I’m sure the grieving spouse and children would just love that.
paddleboard9 on November 04 at 5:32 p.m.
If the mayor and police chief want the community to support the police department then fire or at least suspend the officers who disobeyed you. When your voted out as mayor you can thank these thugs for it. I refuse to acknowledge them as law enforcement officers, they are goons, thugs and storm troopers.
another_perspective on November 04 at 5:34 p.m.
I sat next to Rocky Treppedi in the Spokane Federal Courthouse and I tried my best to fart in his direction. Is that the same thing?
DickAdams on November 04 at 5:37 p.m.
I was just notified by the SR, a comment of mine was nixed and erased my words as well. I`m wondering what I said but I was not allowed to review it to find out what I said or did wrong.
Kristopher on November 04 at 5:41 p.m.
First of all thank you for all the police officers out there that stood up to salute.. Karl is a good man, who is loyal, and dedicated and obviously well respected by police in the community that are dignified. I feel for your police department that is definitely going through a hard time with so many different feelings. A loss of a loved one is also hard so my feelings go out to both sides,, but Karl is innocent of the charges brought against him. Those of you in this community that are hateful and mean and wish harm on others, may you look in the mirror one day and be judged yourself, because your hate and animosity is creating a city of destruction, its destroying good police officers and their welfare, innocent families, the case is over, so VERNER AND KIRPATRICK… please do me a favor and instead of constantly saying sorry, stop your hateful citizens and corrupt media who when this whole trial started… began false rumors, and now has turned into this all out backstabbing in the city of Spokane where you dont even back your own officers..and I bet they are afraid to even protect the citizens that are endanger…Putting a man behind bars that acted on a robbery call, and has served his whole life protecting the community,, and then bashing his name and his family, and his fellow officers, that is what has destroyed your city…… Spokane Washington… you created your own problems by your hatred and your negativity not only on Karl but on half the police department..
jddavis on November 04 at 5:42 p.m.
I am certain most if not all of these SPD officers know the history or real meaning of a salute. I do see they know full well what it means to turn their back(s).
SPD—you’d better get your collective self together.
The_Seer on November 04 at 5:44 p.m.
More from the “We support Karl Thompson” Facebook page:
Kevin Kilgore
If the sheep don’t want the sheepdogs, maybe we should just leave them tgo the wolves!
Like · · 6 hours ago ·
3 people like this.
Adrianne Raynne Nomee ‎…how can you say that, or even like that, for that matter? I understand Spokane is in a uproar & everybody on both sides are thoroughly upset with what’s going on, but do you really feel that way? Both sides are wrong at this point, we’re humans-not blood thirsty barbarians. And any and every cop in the world should believe in doing what’s right…and if you support them-you should feel the same way.
4 hours ago · Like
Arthur D Washington Jr I agree, leave them to the wolves. I hear people say stuff like “Just fire the bad cops, we can always hire more.”….. That’s just not true. We are born Sheepdogs, you can’t take a sheep and train them to do our job. They don’t have the constitution for it. They go about their daily lives and we must take care of them……. It’s too bad Karl is being incarcerated for thinning out one of the weaker sheep. He did Spokane a favor as far as I’m concerned.
The administrator of this page leaves posts like Washington’s up for perusal while deleting almost all comments that aren’t completely supportive of Thompson.
We have a HUGE problem here. This conviction is just the beginning and we need to remain vigilant.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/We-Support-Karl-Thompson/130290690659
mrd on November 04 at 5:45 p.m.
The Spokane cops just continue to show they have no class. Disgusting show in the courtroom and your contempt for the local citizens. Do you stand behind every felon or just the ones that are cops?
jddavis on November 04 at 5:48 p.m.
Kristopher—
Yesterday, I had the opportunity to talk to a friend who was present at the Zip-Trip and witnessed first-hand Otto getting beat down. He was a witness for the Feds, and what he described was more disturbing than what the media has reported.
Keep telling yourself how honorable and good Thompson is. Maybe someday, you might actually believe it.
SpokaneIsFun on November 04 at 5:52 p.m.
The citizens of Spokane want total reform within the city’s offices. The police department is out of control and needs a Strong Management Team but that can’t happen because of all the problems within City Hall. I think ultimately a Federal Judge will put the City under Federal control.
As for the general public I see no other alternative but to sell their property and leave this city. I would not pay taxes to fund what is occurring in this city.
The_Seer on November 04 at 5:53 p.m.
Officer “krisotpher” son…..
You nailed it dude. All except for the point that the citizens and media didn’t violate the civil rights of another citizen “depriving him of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” and then further violate public trust by lying in an attempt to cover their behavior.
Most humans, in our development, arrive at a clear understanding of right and wrong around the age of five. This doesn’t mean five year olds are ready to take responsibility for their actions, they just understand that sometimes they don’t do the right thing. Let me know when the SPD is ready to stop acting like three year olds.
zelda on November 04 at 5:59 p.m.
They were told not to but they did it anyway. Are there any consequences? Can they just do as they please in defiance of a direct order?
PlanB on November 04 at 6:09 p.m.
I’m still waiting for the “good” cops that I hear exist (and hope exist) to come out against this sickening display of contempt against every citizen of Spokane and legitimate law enforcement.
Hopefully some of those clowns in the courtroom today will be there again soon…
Tori_girl on November 04 at 6:14 p.m.
I just want to give a Thank You to all the men and women in Blue who were there to Salute Karl Thompson! It goes to show he had the respect and support of the people who know him best; his family, friends and co-workers. I for one will be cheering for Karl to get an appeal; sounds like he deserves one!
misjustice on November 04 at 6:17 p.m.
Was the salute a one hand in the air kind of salute? A final sieg heil from the brown shirts?
@ EthicsinLA; there are ethics in the LAPD? Really?
Leave Ron the Cop alone. We like him and will close ranks around him…
I’m glad the Karl the Klubber is sittin’ in jail now…deprived of his freedom, stripped of his civil rights, and most likely cryin’ like a lil’ boy…
It gives me great pleasure to picture him confined, behind bars, alone, afraid, and bewildered. And when he cries himself to sleep tonight, there will be no one there to comfort him. And when he awakes in the morning, in unfamilar surroundings, thinking it was all a bad dream, may he finally start to realize that he alone is responsible for where he now finds himself.
misjustice on November 04 at 6:20 p.m.
A CONVICTED FELON locked behind bars…
; )
The_Seer on November 04 at 6:23 p.m.
brian: I enjoyed your military analogy, yet I believe it belies the militarization of our police that is perhaps at the core of the SPD response to this incident. The parallels between Thompson’s case and the events which occurred at Abu Ghraib are eerily similar.
Abu Ghraib only came to light because of video/photographic evidence of detainee abuse. That evidence was only produced because of an adversarial press which refused to stomach the packaged lie.
I need to thank the Spokesman Review for using their power in this case. I am often critical of the publishers, editors, writers, and advertisers of this publication. It was their action, along with the work of others in the media, that fought for the release of the video.
That still doesn’t stop me from questioning THEIR motives, especially after what THEY did to Jim West.
brianrbreen on November 04 at 6:24 p.m.
@EthicsinLE
As you may well know, I’ve read every available report. Including reports when he was a Juvenile Probation Officer in Idaho, an Insurance Investigator, a LAPD Cop, an Idaho State Investigator, an ISP Cop, a Kootenai County Sheriff, a Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office Capt. I’ve read the biography he submitted when he ran for Sheriff in K. County. I’m trying to get all the IA reports from each agency. I’m waiting for the DD214, and I’ve read every filing and as much court testimony as I could. To me a salute is a very reverend thing and only given to those who deserve it. If it is your assessment he deserved it so be it. If that is the assessment of those who stood there so be it. I just have this thing about cocking my arm to someone who I have no respect for.
BlondeSquawker on November 04 at 6:25 p.m.
Yep, a CONVICTED FELON. Have fun picking apples, KARL!
Tori_girl on November 04 at 6:30 p.m.
If someone is drinking and driving and gets a DUI for it that is not police profiling it is justice and fate. The guy/girl drank too much and they got caught breaking the law. I don’t see how giving someone, who desevses a DUI a DUI where is the wrong in that? I don’t want some jack–- hitting me or my loved ones because he/she is out drinking and I don’t care who he/she was or was not talking about in the bar before he/she got ____ faced and decided to drive. I guess only some people can be above the law and that is drunks in Spokane or where ever that drunk is from. What a good mentality to have. He/she deserves to get off because of who he/she was talking about in the bar before he/she drove drunk???
brianrbreen on November 04 at 6:31 p.m.
@Seer
I knew you were going to go there. What do you want me to use, Principles, Vice Principles, Teaching Mentors? Hell I don’t know anything about that what do you expect? Your job should you choose to accept it is to correct then and than. That’s it!
misjustice on November 04 at 6:32 p.m.
Nope, Blondie, they only let non-violent convicts pick de apples…LOL…
Karl the Klubber can’t be in with the general population cause he’d get shived/shanked/or gang banged so I think that means twenty three hours per day in lock down. At least as long as he is in County…
jddavis on November 04 at 6:35 p.m.
Brian—pretty close! “From earliest times and in many distant armies throughout history, the right hand (or “weapon hand”) has been raised as a greeting of friendship and to demonstrate the absence of a weapon.”
Now it they knew this, that would be pretty ironic wouldn’t it?
The SPD who turned their backs did so in a display of contempt and disrespect for our laws, judicial system, and in a sense Otto Zehm. If this is their beliefs and character, we’d do much better without them.
herewegoagain on November 04 at 6:36 p.m.
Hitler had many in his ranks that considered all his doings proper. They too saluted him
brianrbreen on November 04 at 6:39 p.m.
I swear, if they would have had as many groupies back in my time as they do now, I’d be sterile. Either that or I would never be able to (wake) up again.
Birdog on November 04 at 6:40 p.m.
someone should make up “OTTO” stickers and paste them on your bumpers..let the SPD know where their place is.
brianrbreen on November 04 at 6:44 p.m.
@jddavis
I’m sorry I wasn’t aware they turned their backs. You are right that means only on thing.
Frankly I’m ready to give up.
BlondeSquawker on November 04 at 6:48 p.m.
Fire those cops.
DickAdams on November 04 at 7:03 p.m.
I shall try once more to post a comment.
The officers that saluted has put our city in the spot light receiving another shiner. The MSM will pick up on this story and Spokane will be known for the corruption we have in our SPD. Its a little late for the apology by Mayor Marry Verner and Police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick after their attempt to cover-up this crime. I can`t even imagine the sorrow of OTTO`s family by this despicable demonstration. It will be interesting to hear what the Spokane Police Guild has to say. I wonder if the guild officers who run the organization will put the “GOOD POLICE OFFICERS” on the hot seat, who probably feel the same way most of us do. The audacity of the bad cops to pull a stunt like this is unpardonable.
misjustice on November 04 at 7:12 p.m.
To quote DickAdams; all the Karl lubbers posting here are filling this thread with “undigested food through a bull.”
; )
AlleganyWolf on November 04 at 7:19 p.m.
What is up with this guy and just what “favor” does he refer to?? THIS guy needs to be investigated if you ask me.
Taken from “We support Karl Thompson” FB page.
Arthur D Washington Jr I agree, leave them to the wolves. I hear people say stuff like “Just fire the bad cops, we can always hire more.”….. That’s just not true. We are born Sheepdogs, you can’t take a sheep and train them to do our job. They don’t h…ave the constitution for it. They go about their daily lives and we must take care of them……. It’s too bad Karl is being incarcerated for thinning out one of the weaker sheep. He did Spokane a favor as far as I’m concerned.
richie on November 04 at 7:22 p.m.
I think there should be a march straight down Monroe during shift change, everyone clinging to their soda pop bottle of choice and a snickers in their pocket, right down to City Hall. It really makes me wonder what would happen…..we could all clink our soft soda bottles together in a silent salute to Otto. He would like that.
The_Seer on November 04 at 7:24 p.m.
brian: I get your point but I can’t recall any public educators who allowed students to be tortured or used excessive force to deprive them of their “right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”
Unless we are talking about a pop quiz…?
Yet on a deeper level, you are correct. I’ve witnessed my professional organization obfuscate, flummox and diffuse obvious evidence of a colleague’s malfeasance and fall back upon their original purpose as a manufactured excuse. The difference is my profession, through School Boards, is directly accountable to the public.
Which brings us back to your point that I”m attempting to refute.
Rocco is in the school board of District 81.
estatetracker on November 04 at 7:30 p.m.
Cop convicted of a violent crime that led to death of an innocent, mentally challenged guy who just wanted his favorite candy bar from his regular neighborhood store. Then, cop convicted of a cover-up of the facts after the initial crime—
And 50 or so cops stand in honor to salute the criminal?
This sign of “respect” in the law enforcement proffession has taken a dangerous corner. It exemplifies the true colors of the Spokane Police Department. It shows that despite law, the justice system, and verdicts rendered—that Spokane cops have such disrespect for that same law that they in mass and in unison thumbed their noses in protest of the legal system—and right there within the sanctaty of a Federal Court House—
What does this mean on the street? It means that I would stay home tonight if I lived in Spokane. Too many hyped, chastised, criminal-supporting cops on the beat.
What does this mean for the convicted? There is no prison in the U.S. where a crooked cop likeThompson can go unnoticed. His “friends” who went out of their way to mock the justice system really just made Thompson’s life in the box more dangerous, solitude, and certainly will not sit well with the sentancing Judge—oops.
What does this mean for the Zehm family? More grief, more punishment through the hands of the felon’s co-workers. There is no amount of money that can erase the image of this terrible, disrespctful display by the Spokane Police Department.
The image I will always keep in the forefront of my memory is the genuine smile of Otto, and laughter (that he sometimes could not control). This is what more of humanity should never forget about the innocent.
The “Salute Out of Respect” is dead. God bless your souls.
johnclarke on November 04 at 7:33 p.m.
Kristopher on November 04 at 5:41 p.m.
New ID, added today 2 posts.
Tori_girl
New ID, added today, 4 posts.
misjustice on November 04 at 7:39 p.m.
Yeah, they be Karl lubbers, JC; perhaps they thought they were posting on the “We Love Karl” FaceBook page?
Love him all ya want, he’s sittin’ alone in a cell tonight! CONVICTED FELON; stripped of his civil rights and his freedom.
; )
johnclarke on November 04 at 7:40 p.m.
I have to get off this thread. I am appalled at the actions of the police in the courtroom, and the posts on this board. The jurors have spoken. This is a small measure of comfort for the family of the innocent life that was snuffed out, for literally no reason.
We pay you people to protect and serve, not defend a criminal because he happened to do the same job.
All of you, grow up and remember who you work for. You should be striving to find a way to mitigate this issue and regain the public trust - not defending the guilty.
JamesBowers on November 04 at 7:50 p.m.
So if you want to take a small victory over the SPD and their lack of respect do this.
Step 1: Log into your facebook account.
Step 2: Search for We Support Karl Thompson
Step 3: Like We Support Karl Thompson
Step 4: Report the site We Support Karl Thompson as offensive/discriminatory. Choose the discriminates against the disabled option.
Step 5: Repeat until the site is pulled by facebook.
The site is full of Spokane cops who now support a convicted criminal.
richie on November 04 at 8:01 p.m.
Done and Done :)
BlondeSquawker on November 04 at 8:04 p.m.
What part of CON-VICT-ED don’t you understand, Karlubbers?
BlondeSquawker on November 04 at 8:10 p.m.
One thang is for sure, he’ll have a long time to think about what he did to that poor disabled man. Should’a retired before he got so angry perhaps. Shouldn’ta lied about what happened, either. I wonder if he’ll ever own up to it. Too bad for his family. I feel worse for Otto’s family, though. The don’t ever get to see him again.
estatetracker on November 04 at 8:10 p.m.
And by the way -
Thomas Clouse, you have developed into a fine reporter since I first met you 15 or so years ago. Hope you don’t move-on like so many other good Spokane Journalist have in the past.
You kept it real.
Thank You,
Scott Brown
Ed Byrnes on November 04 at 8:11 p.m.
Hi All,
To wrap some context around this I did a probability analysis.
First, I looked up how many police officers the SPD has:
http://www.spokanepolice.org/documents/State%20of%20SPD%20Staffing.pdf
Apparently there are 290 officers in the SPD,
This article reports approximately four dozen officers saluting the offender.this morning, which is 48 officers.
To determine the probability of one of us encountering an officer who solicited the offender I used the basic probability formula for a single event, based on sampling with replacement, which is:
48 / 290 = .166.
What this means is that us civilians have a probability of .166 of encountering and SPD officer who saluted the offender, which is a 16.6% chance. To put it in ratio it is a 1 in 6 chance, so out of every six officers there is one who saluted the offender.
So 1 in 6 is far too high a number to have this kind of attitude and behavior.
Nonetheless it behooves us to remember that five out of six SPD officers did not salute the offender. Put in context the converse of 16.6% is 83.4%, so we have a far greater likelihood of encountering an officer who did not salute the offender than of encountering one who did, by a factor of five.
There is a chance that I have underestimated the probability by a little since some officers who wanted to salute the offender could have been on shift, but it would take a large proportion of those on shift being in this category for it to change the odds, which is not very likely.
Brian, I am really saddened to read your sentiments about the seeming futility of our current situation. You have always been forthright and a tireless advocate for ethical law enforcement practices. I hope this numeric context takes some of the sting out of this mornings event for you, especially since these numbers support what you have consistently asserted about the problem being in the leadership rather than the rank and file.
I also hope you see that someone like me who advocates for a civilian review board believes that numeric context matters, and that some of us clearly see that the need for our oversight comes from failed leadership within and beyond the SPD and do not blame all of the rank and file for that.
To all, I hope you take some comfort in these numbers in context. For me having five to one odds of encountering an officer who did not salute the offender helps me simmer down my initial emotional response to this mornings news. Although we need to continue pushing for better accountability and oversight I hope we can see that all SPD officers are not of the same mind about this case and that the officers who saluted the offender this morning are clearly in the minority.
Peace,
Ed Byrnes
BlondeSquawker on November 04 at 8:21 p.m.
From the we love Karl fb page:
Rick Atkins
“If the Spokane Police Department has any leadership they will stand up and denounce this travesty of justice. Karl is innocent. We all know that.”
Yeah, that sounds like a great idea. How bout all yer friends that stand up and denounce this conviction quit the force as they could pose a real danger to society. There is no place for angry cops in Spokane, as the righteous conviction of Thompson proves.
Tori_girl on November 04 at 8:30 p.m.
BlondeSquawker; it might be that your name says it all but correct me if I am wrong but there are many many people in the world sitting in jail for crimes that they may or may not have committed. Most all of them probably have the support and love of their families, friends and even possibly co-workers. If you are going to point fingers at people who love and support their family members or friends who have made mistakes or perhaps not made mistakes but are in jail for crimes they did not commit; you are going to have to get a lot more fingers. Perhaps you have not heard this before;
Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?
People have a right to love and defend their families and friends. That does not make them bad people. Calling names only proves your ignorance. Of course Karl Thompsons family and friends support him. That is why people are called friends.
brianrbreen on November 04 at 8:37 p.m.
Let’s see if the Chief and the Mayor have any kind of integrity at all or who really runs this city. Based on past discipline the minimum for each officer is two days suspension without pay, no vacation substitution.
See if they feel so strongly about doing what they did in open court with a convicted felon that they are willing to walk in and admit what they did and take the unpaid days.
Or shall we see if the Chief is like I’ve said all along, the worst we have ever had.
Standard 4.4:
Members of the Spokane Police Department shall maintain a level of conduct in their personal and business affairs in keeping with the high standards of the Spokane Police Department
Standard 4.9:
Members of the Spokane Police Department shall at all times conduct themselves in a manner which does not discredit the law enforcement profession or the Spokane Police Department
Standard 4.10:
Members of the Spokane Police Department shall not be disrespectful, insolent,
mutinous or insubordinate in attitude, or conduct, or by disregarding a lawful order.
Standard 4.11:
Members of the Spokane Police Department shall be courteous and respectful in
their official dealings with the public, fellow members, superiors and subordinates.
Standard 6.3:
Members of the Spokane Police Department shall conduct themselves so as to set exemplary standards of performance.
brianrbreen on November 04 at 8:45 p.m.
I’ve already talked to some embarrassed ex-cops, as well as some federal employees.
If it isn’t an IA complaint by 1300 hrs. Monday. I’ll make it. If I need photos and video, I’ll post my email.
Please accept my apologies.
misjustice on November 04 at 8:47 p.m.
Well, Tori, I’m sure he’ll appreciate all those long letters of support sent to the jail and visitors during visitation hours; just like other FELONS do.
Of course, once he’s moved to a Federal Prison the visitation thingy will be more difficult to do but you can still write, and call, and pray, and stuff.
At least you can write to your friend and see him during jail visitation hours; the friends and family of Otto will never get to see him again, thanks to you and yours.
Ed Byrnes on November 04 at 8:48 p.m.
Erratum:
The line “To determine the probability of one of us encountering an officer who solicited the offender…”
Should be changed to “To determine the probability of one of us encountering an officer who saluted the offender…”
Ed Byrnes
misjustice on November 04 at 8:49 p.m.
Brian, you are one brave dude…
; )
richie on November 04 at 8:50 p.m.
5 out of 5 Brian. Makes you wonder “how high” those standards are……
brianrbreen on November 04 at 8:50 p.m.
@Ed
I wasn’t that pissed off until today! I’m better now.
Pigrobin on November 04 at 8:54 p.m.
OK tori_girl you have your right to see it any way you want but this is the way most people see it…BUT FOR THE ACTIONS OF THE SPD, OTTO ZEHM WOULD BE ALIVE TODAY. There is no other way to look at this, someone is responsible for his death and Thompson was found guilty in a court of law of using excessive force. Argue, complain, and demonstrate solidarity with the guilty all you want but this is the way this community sees it. It is time for our police force to clean itself up.
greenlibertarian on November 04 at 8:59 p.m.
Good find, Brian.
I for one GREATLY appreciate your posts, even when they go a little obtuse, I figure that’s me not understanding.
Brian, as you appear to be the most knowlegeble about Thompson’s entire career, would you say, on balance, that he had a pretty respectable career (up until the Zehm beatdown)?
Because that’s the picture I’m getting.
I do wonder why a guy who had been a Captain (Idaho), was now working more mundane (altho I heard he was a hostage negotiator) police work with one stripe on his sleeve.
If anything, Karl himself would NOT be telling officers to act in any other way than completely responsible and professional manner, which belies what’s happening to some extent.
I say that not to defend him, for it is clear he acted VERY WRONG in the Zehm case and his conviction is clearly warranted.
Nor would I ever wish harm upon him, or any other prisoner for that matter. Klubber will be in PC in whatever manner of custody he is put in. He shouldn’t be in death row type conditions.
As a human being, I can understand wanting to support a loved one and collegue, even while knowing the wrongness of his/her actions, which were severe. But the friends of Thompson go way beyond that. They proclaim his innocence as if the trial had railroaded Klubber, but it most certainly did not. As you pointed out, he got an incredibly good defense, WAY better than the average defendant. Yet he was still convicted, which speaks to the likely no grant of cert from the 9th.
I do not consider the man evil, but what he did that night was evil and must be punished or leveraged to further root out police corruption and in the city attorney’s office.
Ed Byrnes on November 04 at 9:08 p.m.
Brian,
I am glad to know you are feeling better now.
In my opinion you have nothing to apologize for since you have consistently set an example of integrity. I do understand how frustrating it is when one’s colleagues do things that are counter to the ethics of their profession. The way this civilian sees it the officers who turned their backs on their U.S. Marshall colleagues and saluted the offender are in a small minority and you are in the ethically solid majority.
You have pointed the clear way for those who turned their backs on their U.S. Marshall colleagues and saluted the offender to responsibly demonstrate the strength of their beliefs, which I hope some will follow.
I hope you do not have to file the IA complaint, though regrettably, I think you will, given the history of the SPD and Spokane City administrations. I don’t have footage or still photographs of the officers in question though I will co-sign the complaint with you if you want me to.
Ed
brianrbreen on November 04 at 9:16 p.m.
@misjustice
If necessary. I’ll have the names of everyone in the courtroom aside from the SPD people by Tuesday afternoon. I’ll collect the video and any stills available. Those that will allow it, I will do tape recorded interviews. I will do a PDR for time cards and shift logs. I’ll request an interview with Judge Hutton, and very probably get it. I’ll easily get statements from the Marshals, the US Attorney, and the court security staff. And yes try and get statements CO and the rest of the defense team as well as the media present. I’m sure Finer will give me a statement, and make the family available for statements.
Basically I’ll do everything IA should be doing and I’ll hand the damn thing to them on a gold platter, if they won’t do the right thing after that, then there is nothing more I can do.
brianrbreen on November 04 at 9:18 p.m.
@Ed
I’ll sign it myself, might need the pictures though.
joe doughtnut on November 04 at 9:27 p.m.
From Support Karl Thompson Facebook Page,
Craig Meidl
I was present today at the court proceeding where Karl was taken into custody. There has been a lot of confusion about the hand salute as Karl exited the courtroom. I talked to the officer that called for “present arms” and he was mortified to learn that members of the Zehm family were still in the courtroom. The proceeding had ended and several people had exited. It was his belief, and mine, that the only people remaining were officers and members of Thompson’s family. The show of respect was not about the incident involving Mr Zehm. The show of respect was for the officer that we all knew and were friends with. It was for the officer that was highly respected and looked up to by so many officers. The officers on our department are hurting. We hear all the bad things being said about us and each one causes a little more bleeding. We are trying to heal. We want to heal. We want to do the best we can for our community because it’s the right thing to do. We would never do anything intentionally to hurt this community or members of this community and I am saddened that there are people that feel that way. We are committed to our oath of office. I pray that you extend us some grace during this time and help us heal.
Major Craig Meidl
Major Craig Meidl is on the command staff of the SPD.He tells us of a fellow officer and his “belief” that officers and Thompson’s family are the only ones remaining in the courtroom. I would hope that officers are more aware of their surroundings when they serve and protect the public.
misjustice on November 04 at 9:27 p.m.
Brian,
Wow, I am almost speechless/typeless????…I admire your pluck, your honesty, your strength and your courage. Just when I was being to think that there were no good guys in white hats left, along you came with your boot of doom! Oh, and Ron the Cop, too. Oh, and Ed the intellectual! Yeah!!!!
; )
P.S. still workin’ on underthecovers…
; )
brianrbreen on November 04 at 9:29 p.m.
@Green
There are a lot of things I won’t get into. Some of the things your are wondering about would make any reasonable person wonder.
It doesn’t make any difference whether it’s a child molester, or a cop that’s going away. There will always be a supporter. It’s how you show that support that means something. Whether it’s the Zehm family, or the child victim, no matter what your feelings is for the perpetrator you don’t disrespect the victim, the victims family, or the justice system.
misjustice on November 04 at 9:31 p.m.
Beginning/not being…
Long day as a cog in the corporate wheel…
; )
At least I didn’t solicit instead of salute!
; )
misjustice on November 04 at 9:42 p.m.
I thought that Karl was at County but I was wrong…
“Thompson will be held in custody in a solitary cell for 23 hours a day, and will only be let out for showers and to make phone calls for an hour a day. He will not be in general population or have contact with other prisoners while in custody. It’s not known where he will be held until sentencing, but jail officials in both Spokane and Coeur d’Alene have both said Thompson is not being held at either county jail facility.”
http://www.kxly.com/news/29684924/detail.html
brianrbreen on November 04 at 9:46 p.m.
@ joe doughtnut
Found out years ago not to rely on what one person says or a particular group of people says. Get the facts, and keep in mind cop or not you might be being lied to. I laid it out up there, that is what needs to be done right now, and I will do it, if you guys don’t. I’ve already talked to some people present. You guys are nuts if you think you are going to get any respect unless this is taken care of properly.
greenlibertarian on November 04 at 9:52 p.m.
Some people just don’t get it.
Hoping ANYONE gets raped in prison is SICK IN THE HEAD.
Lewis on November 04 at 9:54 p.m.
Major Craig Meidl is real piece of work isn’t he, does not want to hurt the community, what a pack of lies, why are the cops bleeding they did not have one of theirs beat to death and then wait 5 years to get justice?
Major Craig Meidl resign your days are numbered, get your pension while you still can.
joe doughtnut on November 04 at 9:55 p.m.
brianrbreen on November 04 at 9:46 p.m.
Just want to share that the SPD PR machine is in gear, or is trying to be.The gears seem to “slipping”.
Ed Byrnes on November 04 at 9:57 p.m.
I admire how you are taking this on as well Brian.
Ed
Lewis on November 04 at 10:00 p.m.
greenlibertarian
anybody that thinks killing a disabled man for nothing better to do is sick in the head.
BlondeSquawker on November 04 at 10:03 p.m.
Oh Noes, Tori!
brianrbreen pretty much spelled it out for you.
The_Seer on November 04 at 10:04 p.m.
Brian:
Whoa.
Stones, dude.
Your citations of code of conduct required of SPD members certainly demonstrates to the mostly unknowing what really happened today.
Standard 4.10:
Members of the Spokane Police Department shall not be disrespectful, insolent,
mutinous or insubordinate in attitude, or conduct, or by disregarding a lawful order.
Lewis on November 04 at 10:04 p.m.
he is probably in the holding cells on the 5th floor of the federal courthouse.
Ron_the_Cop on November 04 at 10:09 p.m.
Brian,
I’ve got your back if you want.
I do understand the emotional need to show support albeit perhaps misdirected and uninformed. HOWEVER the manner in which this was done discredits all officers that serve. This action in the courtroom no less was disrespectful of the rule of law, the sanctity of the court and of course the victim’s family.
BlondeSquawker on November 04 at 10:20 p.m.
It reads like a Carl Hiaason novel, only it isn’t funny. Didn’t anybody ever teach these cops right from wrong? It just seems so very twisted to hurt Otto’s family like they did today. These are the same cops that were standing by to club and pepper spray protesters had the verdict gone the other way.
BlondeSquawker on November 04 at 10:30 p.m.
To me, those cops were pretty much saying “we quit”. That would be the best thing they could do now. That stuff about them not knowing the Zehm family was present won’t stick. They blatantly violated the rules of the force. Thanks for finding that, Brian.
GDodd on November 04 at 10:47 p.m.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLfYVFamso8
BlondeSquawker on November 04 at 10:48 p.m.
Karl Thompson Back In Court Monday
Colleen O’Brien | Reporter / Internet Content Editor, KXLY.com
Posted: 9:22 pm PDT November 4, 2011
“SPOKANE — Convicted Spokane Police Officer Karl Thompson was ordered to be taken into custody until his hearing months from now, but that could all change on Monday.
The announcement came as a surprise to many Friday night – the Yakima judge that presided over Thompson’s excessive force trial ordered a hearing Monday afternoon to reconsider a federal judge’s decision Friday morning to take Thompson into custody until his hearing.”
Hmmmmmm…..
amn on November 04 at 11:32 p.m.
Brianbreen is the most honorable man I know. Besides my father, he is the man I next respect the most. I would not want to be in those officer’s shoes when Brian gets involved. I have seen him mad and it is not pretty.
For everyone who rips Carl Oreskovich does not know him. He is actually one of the good lawyers in the profession. He is actually one with honor and integrity. His co-counsel Steve Lamberson is another issue. He is a piece of garbage. Thompson got a fair trial and was represented by the best counsel he could get. My issue is not necessarily what happened at the Zip Trip, but the horrific cover up from the top down that followed. If the city and SPD said “we effed up” I don’t think this trial ever happens. There is a wrongful death suit that is settled quickly and quietly and it is over.
tnayew on November 04 at 11:46 p.m.
How could 48 police officers, who are trained to observe, not see Otto’s family near by? The answer is: They did see Otto’s family. They did the salute in defiance to their lose. They didn’t care what anybody thought of them. They could not stand Karl loosing his trial, their trail. Keep an eye on these 48 officers, they tipped their hand, they loss control and gave their position away. Very bad for them to do this, in their anger they could not see what they were doing, they could not see that they were saying we are for Karl we are like Karl. 42 years ago when I was 17 I found out what a very angry and frustrated police office will do with the power he has. And I’ve seen it since then too, I’ve seen it on TV, the newspapers, and: www.injusticeeverywhere.com. Check it out, you’ll see.
greenlibertarian on November 04 at 11:53 p.m.
Rick Atkins
If the Spokane Police Department has any leadership they will stand up and denounce this travesty of justice. Karl is innocent. We all know that.
Like · Comment · 3 hours ago ·
-From we support Karl Thompson Facebook site, bolding added.
Rick Atkins twitter 411:
Rick Atkins
@rba800 Spokane Washington
Christian, Conservative, Sheepdog, Global Warming Denier and Armed Infidel.
http://facebook.com/rick.308
http://twitter.com/#!/rba800
As of February 2011, Rick Atkins was an SPD officer, and a rather Gung-ho one.
http://www.spokanepolice.org/Documents/SPD%20Newsletter/02%202011edition2.pdf
This culture of corruption must be reformed.
An “Armed Infidel” should NOT be protecting and serving the citizenry of Spokane.
greenlibertarian on November 05 at 12:05 a.m.
What they (SPD officers) “all know” is they want to get a free pass when they ignore their training, screw up, and beat an innocent citizen into a bloody pulp, then kill him.
Sorry, no deal. No matter how exemplary your previous record was (or wasn’t).
You screw up that bad, you’re going to jail. Serves as an example that you knuckleheads better get right in your mind.
Get used to the new paradigm or get lost.
LostInWyoming on November 05 at 5:48 a.m.
What really bothered me about the video,was the cops in the background walking around the store.Shopping! While poor Otto layed there on the floor HOGTIED and dieing. I think this shows a lack of compasion for their fellow man and what they think of first,themselves.
nslopeofw on November 05 at 6:53 a.m.
Kristopher-
If Karl is such an honorable and innocent man, how do you explain the FACT that he ran from his cruiser, ran into the store, ran through the aisle to Otto Zehm, and began hitting him on the head with his non-standard, extra strong baton? Then he chased him (while Otto was on the floor) to the next aisle, beat him some more, tazered him, continued to beat him, and when another officer arrived, he instructed that officer to tazer him again. Then, when the whole gang arrived, they covered his nose and mouth, then sat on him for good measure. When in this scenario was Karl honorable? When was he a good man? How are we in this community hateful, when we see this video, and have heard a jury from another city convict this man of crimes? How can anyone with a brain think he is innocent?
His is not innocent. Someone who was innocent would not have made up his mind before he even entered the store. They would not have ran over and began beating him. And, they certainly would not have tried to cover it up once they had heard from their friends that there was no lunge in the video.
The only people that are posting of Karl’s innocence are other cops, Karls family, and the groupie “Badge Bunnies” that are like camp followers for the LE groups. The rest of us like having good cops around, but despise the rogue, holier than thou, laws dont apply to us, crowd. Unfortunately, there appears to be at least 16%-20% of this type of scum in SPD.
Lewis on November 05 at 8:15 a.m.
i am sure the fed is watching these posts and running down the IP address of those saying Karl is innocent and the other comments posted here and found on Karls FB page.
actually it just shows how stupid they really are. any normal employee would be walking the line. but these comments show the cops really do think they are above any law of our society.
thanks to Ron and Brian for giving the citizens a fighting chance. You have my full support!
coozbee on November 05 at 1:56 p.m.
I agree! This mentally ill man was KILLED! No regard for his life or his RIGHTS! He was beaten to death, without.
any questions asked, identification requested. For these fellow officers to salute this convicted officer is a disgrace to the city of Spokane and its citizens. Protect and SERVE is the motto, not WE ARE ABOVE AND BEYOND THE LAW!
Look at what Spokane’s finest has done over the last 10 years. Whoever is directing these officers has lost touch with right and wrong. The cover up and the Lying, and how far it has gone is disgraceful. And to praise this officer.
and the statement that Otto Zehm was RESPONSIBLE for his own DEATH? The man had a mind of an 8 year old. ARE YOU KIDDING ME! He is responsible for his own death? What is the matter with people here in Spokane?
Are they totally oblivious to the obvious? Lie, steal, cheat, and oh if you get caught, change your story! INTEGRITY
is not just a word! It’s a REQUIREMENT! from the judge down to patrol officer, period.
truthBknown on November 05 at 2:43 p.m.
Now that Officer Karl Thompson has been found guilty of murder ~ are they going to re-open the “alleged” rape case against Officer Uberauga? He is one of the “Hard 7” (the officers moniker on the Spokane Review blog damage control unit ) that killed Otto.Talk about an INAPPROPRIATE macho name, so proud name for killing a mentally ill man who never saw a baton blow coming to the back of his head ~ men who fear pepsi bottles and snicker bars as weapons? October 17th, 2007 Detective Jason Uberauga “allegedly” raped a woman while on duty, driving a police vehicle and using police equipment in the incident Uberauga and a fellow Spokane Sheriff’s officers got drunk Scotty’s bar, on duty, eventually conversing with the victim. She showed Jason a tattoo on her breast and Jason took photo’s of her breasts with a police camera. Uberauga then walked her to her car and got in as they talked. Uberauga then proceeded to “allegedly” rape her. Officers and bar patrons came outside to cheer Uberauga on. The victim fought like hell but was overpowered by the buff officer. The victim was bruised and bloodied and went to the hospital for a rape kit. The victim’s car had definitive shoe marks indicating a struggle from her. Victim filed charges, Uberauga was put on paid leave (see:vacation) while an “internal” investigation took place. SPD think it’s dandy to have their “brethren” investigate a police crime! It is legend that these “brethren” stick together no matter what. (Prime example: the 50 cop salute in Federal Court yesterday for convicted murderer and former Officer Karl Thompson.)
DEA Detective Uberauga claimed he and the victim had “consensual sex” and that the victim was just “pissed off” because Uberauga said they could no longer “see each other” as he was engaged. The victim was also engaged at the time of the crime. So ~ in effect~ Uberauga raped the intoxicated victim and then “blamed the victim” for the rape. This is textbook stuff.
The rape victim was then repeatedly harassed in public places by a particular SPD officer close to Uberauga. One night the victim was out with her fiance’ and another couple when a drunken SPD officer started screaming at her in a restaurant, concerning the rape. SPD was called, but as you can guess, they did NOT show up.
The SPD started to frequent the victim’s place of employment, which she video’d. The victim reported this to SPD to no avail. The victim’s boss tired of the harassment and started helping her video the SPD stalking. The SPD would park across the street of the victim’s place of employment,for hours, trying to intimidate her ~ also on video. The SPD pulled over her fiance’s mother for a bogus tail light out (the tail light was NOT out) and cited her on charge of no I.D. on her. The victim’s future mother in law parked at the victims house quite often and was pulled over and cited a few blocks from said home. The victim also had an SPD officer prowling around in her back yard one night.
Meanwhile, after being put on month’s “paid administrative leave”, Uberauga was eventually fired for “behavior unbecoming a police officer”, only to be mysteriously re-hired a few weeks later at a demoted level of ‘police officer’.
The victim’s father contacted SPD Police Chief Kirkpatrick, asking why Uberauga was re-hired ~ Anne sadly told him she “did not agree with the decision”, stating it was “out of her control” (so who is in control?) and she “supported good cops, not bad cops”. The victims father contacted the Attorney General’s Office with the information. The AGO seemed quit interested. But for some reason, the AGO never got back to the father or the victim. (Previously the victim had fought for justice, retained two pro-bono attorney’s, who eventually dropped her case, advising the victim that she has no chance for justice against the SPD.) It’s a sad day when a “poor” rape victim suffers and an “alleged” rapist police officer walks free.
JustaKat on November 05 at 4:05 p.m.
I am just disgusted!!!! Do those police officers have families? Children? Well someone did and that was the mother of Otto Zehm. And she deserved more respect than 50 police officers saluting one of their own who was convicted of TWO felonies! SERIOUSLY there is something stinking in Spokane and it ain’t pretty. I’ve lived here for over 50 years and I am ashamed to call Spokane my home. Shame shame SHAME on those cops. Disgusting…absolutely, totally, disgusting.
nslopeofw on November 06 at 12:09 a.m.
The support karl fb page is loaded with his family. two daughters, for sure. then, his brothers, their spouses, bunch of cops, and of course, the badge bunnies (cop groupies)
Funny, but none of his family seems to think this was in poor taste. They all support it, and claim we civilians just cant understand their love for this convicted felon, and why they honored him. I bet if the Zehm family had cheered and fist pumped when the conviction came down, they would have felt that was in poor taste.
franksalterego on November 07 at 6:28 a.m.
Apologized?.. The Mayor and the Chief of Police Apologized?
Aren’t police officers held to the same laws as the rest of us?
Aren’t police officers Officers of the Court?
An “apology” doesn’t cut it.. That’s the most feckless, weak-kneed response to a direct insult to the court, and the citizens of Spokane.
All you have to do, to see how disgusting this behavior is, is reverse the situation.
How would these “police” react, if you were the one charged with beating someone to death?
You can bet, they wouldn’t be calling “Present Arms” if you were found guilty.
If these “officers” aren’t removed from their jobs, it’s time to remove The Mayor and The Police Chief.
liveinfearoftheSPD on November 07 at 12:53 p.m.
I am not sure if Arthur is a police officer, but this is one of his posts on the support Thompson FB page. Arthur makes it sound as though he is indeed an officer on the SPD.
Quote:
“Arthur D Washington Jr
I agree, leave them to the wolves. I hear people say stuff like “Just fire the bad cops, we can always hire more.”….. That’s just not true. We are born Sheepdogs, you can’t take a sheep and train them to do our job. They don’t have the constitution for it. They go about their daily lives and we must take care of them……. It’s too bad Karl is being incarcerated for thinning out one of the weaker sheep. He did Spokane a favor as far as I’m concerned.”
End Quote.
It frightens me to think, when he feels this way towards the death of any unarmed, innocent citizen, that he is still employed.