After Commissioner Dan Saltzman suspended an officer for firing a beanbag round at point blank range into the thigh of a 12-year-old girl who was resisting arrest, he issued a statement praising the department:
"I have the utmost respect for the men and women of the Portland Police Bureau.
Confronting child abuse and family violence, solving crime and keeping us safe is hard, dangerous work and commands my respect.
Our officers build community, contributing their own time to coaching, mentoring and serving as foster parents. Their dedication to job and community is remarkable.
Chief Rosie Sizer is a great chief and civic leader.
I resolve to maintain good relations, or at least frank discussions with the Portland Police Association on a myriad of issues. These thoughts guide me today as they will a week from today."
The officer, Christopher Humphreys, who was involved in the killing of James Chasse, has since filed a stress disability claim, according to the Oregonian. .
The police union is supporting Officer Humphreys and is mailing out ballots for a vote of no confidence in Chief Rosie Sizer and Saltzman.
See also: City Leaders: Stop Tolerating Police Union Bullying
