State Police Reform Bill Aims to Prohibit Usage of Military Style Equipment & Vehicles

The state legislature concentrated on police reform bills this session and one of the bills, House Bill 1054, has made it to the Senate with a goal of prohibiting police use of SWAT military style equipment and vehicles.

"I want to be sensitive and thoughtful to the concerns on race relations," said Senator Brad Hawkins. "But we really need to make sure we are protecting the people who protect us."

Senator Hawkins has been in talks with Wenatchee Police Chief Steve Crown and Chelan County Sheriff Brian Burnett to work toward an amendment, if the bill passes, to limit that prohibition against SWAT vehicles.

"Apparently, in our community, both the Wenatchee Police Department and Chelan County Sheriff's Office, has a lot invested and they coordinate the use of this equipment when it's needed," said Senator Hawkins.

For more on the bill, visit here.