YWCA Clark County CEO Brittini Lasseigne issues the following statement following the disappointing  acquittal of  a Vancouver Police Department (VPD) officer accused of assault involving the exposure of a person’s genitals and threatening him with a taser: 

We are utterly dismayed that the laws and policies allowing the use of force do not prevent an officer of the law from engaging in a humiliation tactic of exposing a community member's genitals and threatening harm. Use of force should not allow for what would otherwise be sexual predatory behavior. The verdict not only fails the victim but also undermines the trust and safety of our community.

At YWCA Clark County, we demand lawmakers strengthen the use of force laws to prohibit manipulation of the genitals in order to gain compliance. The actions exhibited by the officer were not only egregious but also represented a blatant abuse of power. We refuse to accept such behavior from those sworn to protect and serve. 

This acquittal sends a chilling message that these acts are legal and can go unpunished, perpetuating a culture of impunity within law enforcement. It is a stark reminder of the urgent need for accountability and reform within our justice system. 

Following this incident in 2023, we were hopeful justice would be served with the swift actions of the Vancouver Police Department and the Clark County Prosecuting Attorney’s office. We call on the Vancouver Police Department to take appropriate action during its internal investigation to demonstrate its commitment to serving the community’s best interest. 

We stand firm in our values of peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. We are severely concerned about the unjust treatment of anyone in our community. YWCA Clark County is unwavering in our commitment to combating systemic injustices and protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals in our community. 

Background

On May 21, 2023, the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) released a statement detailing the recent charges brought against one of their officers due to their disturbing behavior during an encounter with a citizen. During the incident, the VPD officer used excessive force and threatened to hurt the citizen’s genitals with a Taser device beyond reasonable means of lawful apprehension. This resulted in the individual involved stating they could not breathe and receiving medical attention.

Nearly a year later, on April 23rd, 2024, jurors found the Vancouver Police Officer police officer not guilty of assault towards the citizen. However, the Vancouver Police Department Professional Standards Unit will conduct an internal investigation while the officer remains on administrative leave.