The City of Kirkland is seeking at least two non-law enforcement community representatives to serve on an investigative board tasked with reviewing instances of police use-of-force.

In 2019, the state legislature passed the Law Enforcement Training and Community Safety Act which requires that all police uses of force that result in death, substantial bodily harm, or great bodily harm be investigated completely independent of the involved agency.

In conjunction with regional law enforcement partners, the Kirkland Police Department is working to establish an independent investigation team which will be called the “Independent Force Investigation Team-King County,”.

IFIT-KC will investigate the use of police deadly force that occurs within Kirkland and the jurisdictions of the partner agencies. The goal is to enhance accountability and increase transparency and trust between law enforcement and the community. The IFIT-KC will conduct the investigation in the same manner as a criminal investigation, according to a press release.

The IFIT-KC will consist of qualified and certified law enforcement investigators and at least two non-law enforcement community representatives.

Applications must be received by March 15, 2021. Applicants will participate in an interview with the Kirkland Chief of Police and Command personnel and selection will be made in collaboration with the City Manager’s office.

The final list of available community representatives will serve for a term of two years, with yearly review and extension of assignment by the Chief of Police. This is an unpaid position.

To learn more about community representative responsibilities, selection criteria, the selection timeline, and how to apply, go to www.kirklandwa.gov/IFIT-KC.