Former Sheriff Deputy Kevin Savage Fired
If a member of law enforcement is on the job long enough, it’s not hard to imagine that he or she could be the target of a few complaints from citizens. There may even be a case or two of misconduct that can be found in files of the longest-tenured law enforcement personnel. Its a tough job with daily conflict with the margins of our society. Its a rare character that can work a long career without some problems.
But some people aren’t cut out for the job. And one is left wondering why management isn’t more accountable. Take former Mr. Kevin Savage for example. Thirty findings of misconduct? What were they waiting for?
King County Deputy Sheriff Kevin Savage was terminated last week after spending the last five months on paid administrative leave while an investigation into his conduct took place. Kevin Savage has been accused by different people of being guilty of a laundry list of bullying or threatening activity, abuse of authority, and inappropriate behavior. During his time as a deputy, he has been the subject of a mind-boggling 22 different internal investigations by the sheriff’s office.
Here is a sample of some of the allegations leveled against him:
Savage told witnesses that they should back his version of events in an assault case, even telling one man that he was wrong, ordering him to be quiet, and pulling out his stun gun in a threatening manner.
Savage visited a witness in the middle of the night and ordered her out of her home, and then waved his baton at her in an effort to scare her.
Savage entered an apartment illegally, arrested a woman without probable cause, and swore at her children.
Savage told a teenager that he could use a pen to sexually assault her and she wouldn’t be able to stop him.
In 2009, Savage had to be removed from patrol duties on Vashon Island after just nine months because of so many complaints levied against him by residents. King County officials cited a lack of integrity and a repetitive pattern of unacceptable behavior as reasons which led to Savage’s dismissal. If he chooses to do so, Savage can appeal his termination.