http://www.kgw.com/news/local/Vanco...ing-on-to-siezed-drugs-and-cash-84069687.html
Vancouver officer fired for hanging on to seized drugs and cash
by David Krough
Posted on February 10, 2010 at 6:04 PM
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VANCOUVER, Wash. -- A Vancouver Police officer was fired after he was accused of holding on to evidence -- including drugs -- at his home.
The department's Chief Clifford Cook said Corporal Randy Braaksma had taken drug and other evidence to his home where he held them for possibly up to a year.
Because of that, Clark County Prosecuting Attorney's were unable to prosecute the suspect in that case
In one other case, investigators said Braaksma failed to turn in cash and drugs until six months after an arrest. Police said there were other, similar instances.
"The actions of Cpl. Braaksma documented in this investigation are completely unacceptable." Cook said. "Taking home drug evidence and repeatedly mishandling evidence that could otherwise be used to help take criminals off the street can not be tolerated in the Vancouver Police Department. As Chief of Police I want to convey that this behavior is not representative of the many fine men and women who protect and serve the citizens of Vancouver with professionalism and pride."
Cook said two of his top goals were to increase transparency and increase accountability.
Braaksma later filed a notice to sue the City of Vancouver. Department spokesperson Kim Kapp said the department could not comment on a pending lawsuit.
Vancouver officer fired for hanging on to seized drugs and cash
by David Krough
Posted on February 10, 2010 at 6:04 PM
******
VANCOUVER, Wash. -- A Vancouver Police officer was fired after he was accused of holding on to evidence -- including drugs -- at his home.
The department's Chief Clifford Cook said Corporal Randy Braaksma had taken drug and other evidence to his home where he held them for possibly up to a year.
Because of that, Clark County Prosecuting Attorney's were unable to prosecute the suspect in that case
In one other case, investigators said Braaksma failed to turn in cash and drugs until six months after an arrest. Police said there were other, similar instances.
"The actions of Cpl. Braaksma documented in this investigation are completely unacceptable." Cook said. "Taking home drug evidence and repeatedly mishandling evidence that could otherwise be used to help take criminals off the street can not be tolerated in the Vancouver Police Department. As Chief of Police I want to convey that this behavior is not representative of the many fine men and women who protect and serve the citizens of Vancouver with professionalism and pride."
Cook said two of his top goals were to increase transparency and increase accountability.
Braaksma later filed a notice to sue the City of Vancouver. Department spokesperson Kim Kapp said the department could not comment on a pending lawsuit.
