The Kent Police Department has terminated a 42-year-old Kent corrections officer after allegations of employee misconduct were sustained. Corrections Officer Michael Pickens, who worked for the past 3 1/2 years at the Kent City Jail, was fired after an extensive investigation.
In September 2010, Kent Corrections officials determined small sums of money were missing from secured property lockers used to store the personal belongings of inmates while they are incarcerated.
During an internal investigation, detectives identified Pickens as a person of interest. Video surveillance included images of Pickens entering the inmates’ property locker and removing cash.
In addition to the internal investigation, the Tukwila Police Department was asked to conduct a criminal investigation. Tukwila Police completed their investigation last week and the file was turned over to the King County Prosecutor for review and consideration of appropriate charges. A charging decision is expected in the near future.
According to Kent Police Chief Ken Thomas, extensive background checks and polygraph examinations are required for all Kent corrections staff. “Those checks provided no indication for Pickins’ behavior in this case.”
Thomas added this is a very disappointing situation and a clear violation of the public trust. “It is an affront to the men and women of this profession that conduct themselves with dignity and respect every day.”
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