Controversy Over Reappointment of Convicted Murderer to Police Oversight Board
A contentious decision to keep a convicted murderer on a police oversight board in Salem, Oregon, is facing renewed scrutiny. This comes as two members of the Salem City Council, who had originally supported the appointment, are reportedly looking to reverse their votes.
Scotty Nowing, president of the Salem Police Officers Union, stated that the union seeks to overturn the narrow vote that reappointed Kyle Hedquist to the city’s Regional Police Review Board. According to Nowing, Council members Vanessa Nordyke and Linda Nishioka have met with police and fire unions as the council reevaluates the decision. A special meeting has been scheduled for January 7 to discuss this matter.
In a letter to the council, Nowing expressed that the vote was “astonishing” and cautioned that it undermines public trust. He indicated that the union is invoking “shock bargaining,” as this appointment impacts the working conditions and safety of police officers.
Background on the Appointment
Hedquist, who is a convicted murderer, had his life sentence commuted by former Oregon Governor Kate Brown in 2022. He was convicted in 1994 for the murder of 19-year-old Nikki Thrasher, a crime he later admitted to. Nowing has criticized the idea that Hedquist deserves a “second chance,” pointing out that his violent crimes are inconsistent with serving on a police oversight board.
One Council member, acknowledging a lack of crucial information when the appointment was made, stated that a background check was not conducted prior to Hedquist’s initial selection in 2024. Nordyke, who is also a mayoral candidate, mentioned that important details about Hedquist’s criminal history were not available at the time of the vote.
In her position, Nordyke initially felt Hedquist deserved the role due to his lack of disciplinary authority and prior support from lawmakers regarding his rehabilitation. However, after hearing from unions, she recognized the need for broader input and plans to push for his removal from the Public Safety Commission in the upcoming meeting. She also emphasized the importance of better vetting practices going forward.
Hedquist, meanwhile, believes he can positively contribute to Salem and has participated in various police activities, claiming no issues with the police during those engagements. However, opposition to his role has persisted among law enforcement leaders long before this recent council decision.
Criticism from Law Enforcement and Community Leaders
Local law enforcement officials, including Douglas County Sheriff John Hanlin, have been vocally critical of the decision to grant Hedquist a pardon, referring to his crime as a “cold-blooded” act. Hanlin and others emphasized that Hedquist’s criminal past disqualifies him from a role involving police accountability.
Councilman Shane Matthews, who voted against Hedquist’s reappointment, voiced similar concerns, stating that it undermines public safety and the integrity of the Police Review Board. He highlighted the seriousness of the crimes involved and expressed the need for higher standards in supervisory roles.
With uncertainty surrounding his future on the board, Hedquist remarked that the council has the authority to dismiss him if they choose. While the fate of his appointment hangs in the balance, community sentiments regarding his involvement in policing oversight remain mixed, reflecting broader debates on accountability and rehabilitation.
