Seattle cop reaches deal to avoid assault conviction
Jan 28, 2014, 11:37 AM | Updated: 1:33 pm
A Seattle police officer accused of assaulting a handcuffed suspect will avoid criminal prosecution if he meets a number of conditions imposed Tuesday by a Seattle Municipal Court judge.
Officer Christopher Hairston was charged with misdemeanor assault after he attacked 23-year-old John Ross, a man who had attacked his wife, Katherine Hairston, also a Seattle police officer, as she responded to a report of a person passed out near Seattle Central Community College on Sept. 24, 2012.
Katherine Hairston was treated for a head injury and scrapes to her hands and knees following the incident. Ross ultimately pleaded guilty to fourth-degree assault.
Hairston’s case will be dismissed in two years if he performs 120 hours of community service, avoids unwanted contact with the victim, pays court costs, fine and fees, and has no criminal violations.
The officer would be subject to up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine if convicted.
An internal investigation by the SPD’s Office of Professional Accountability continues.
