The Wenatchee Police Department says three officers are under internal investigation, with two facing separate criminal inquiries handled by other agencies.
Three officers are under internal investigation, with two facing separate criminal inquiries handled by other agencies, the Wenatchee Police Department said Wednesday.
On Sept. 12, Sergeant Cory Bernaiche was arrested for DUI while off-duty and was immediately placed on administrative leave.
The Washington State Patrol (WSP) is managing the criminal investigation, and the Chelan County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is handling prosecution while the Wenatchee Police Department conducts its own internal review for possible policy violations, officers said.
Ten days later, Corporal Donny Graves was notified of an internal investigation tied to how an unattended death case was handled.
Kennewick Police Department is now leading the internal review, focusing on possible issues with evidence handling, reporting, or following department protocol in case 22W22217.
On Tuesday, a third officer was placed on administrative leave after possible criminal behavior was reported to Chief Rick Johnson.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is managing that criminal investigation, and the officer’s name will be shared if charges are filed, Wenatchee police said.
The internal investigation for this case is on hold while the criminal review is active.
The department says all required notifications to prosecuting agencies and relevant state offices have been made under city policy and state law.
Leaders emphasize the importance of completing investigations fairly, following due process and protecting the integrity of open proceedings by withholding further comment for now.
Mayor Mike Poirier said, “The Wenatchee Police Department is held to the highest standards of professionalism and integrity and the City is committed to addressing these matters fairly and thoroughly.” Chief Rick Johnson added, “I have an unwavering commitment to the Department and to our community,” and that he “will continue to lead with transparency, professionalism, and consistency to meet the needs of those we serve.”
