Activist: Claim against Kshama Sawant has widespread implications

Local activists have come together to defend Seattle Councilmember Kshama Sawant after two police officers filed a claim against her, alleging she defamed them.

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Officers Scott Miller and Michael Spaulding alleged Sawant defamed them when she said they committed “brutal murder.” Sawant was referring to the fatal shooting of Che Taylor.

Taylor, a 46-year-old black man, was shot and killed in 2016 while Miller and Spaulding were attempting to arrest him. A review board found the shooting to fall within the department’s use of force policy. Police alleged Taylor was reaching for a gun when they shot him.

The two officers allege defamation because they were cleared. They initially sued Sawant personally. But once the council said they would defend her, the officers had to amend their lawsuit to include the city.

In February, the officers filed a claim against the city for damages, hoping a settlement is reached out of court. The city has until April 2 to respond, The Stranger reports.

In defense of Kshama Sawant

Supporters of Councilmember Sawant do not want the city to settle out of court.

Freeman Ryan, a supporter of the Kshama Sawant Solidarity Campaign, says it’s unknown how much the case would end up costing the city. Maybe more importantly, the settlement would be used to “cast a shadow of guilt” over Sawant. It could set a precedent that could be used against others who speak out against police, use of force, and racism.

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“This is a public battle that has meaning for the community,” he said.

KTTH’s Jason Rantz wonders if the cry to defend Sawant is somewhat hypocritical. After all, there are some Sawant supporters who will quickly try and shut down the free speech of people they disagree with.

Rantz says he disagrees with what Sawant says. Still, he’s not sure Sawant defamed the officers.

“I think she’s wrong, but I don’t know if this counts as defamation [if she knowingly said something false].”

Listen to the entire conversation here.

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