Investigation reveals sheriff violated ethics code

An investigation into King County’s interim sheriff reveals he violated the county’s ethics code, wearing his uniform while campaigning for November’s election.

King County Senior Deputy Ombudsman Jon Stier says Sheriff Steve Strachan should not be wearing his uniform while attending any political events.

“He’s not on county business when he’s doing campaign business, and wearing his uniform for instance at the picnic, lent the prestige and authority of the sheriff’s office to his campaign,” says Stier.

The investigation determined he violated the code because his uniform is considered a county resource, not to be used for campaigning. The investigation also revealed he’s used his county email account for the campaign.

Strachan reportedly says it is just a misunderstanding and he’s working to fix it.

“We want to make sure we’re following the rules,” says Stier.