Orting Police Department Media Statement by Mayor Joachim Pestinger

February 17, 2015

As mayor, and speaking on behalf of the City Council, we thank the residents of Orting for their support of our police department and for recognizing the hard work our police officers and Chief William Drake put in every day to protect us. We especially thank Chief Drake for continuing to serve our community with integrity, equality, patience and tolerance.

As the elected representatives of Orting’s residents, we also want to express our appreciation and continuing support of our police officers, all department employees and Chief Drake.

Chief Drake came to Orting in 2007 after serving the City of Federal Way Police Department for seven years; serving our country in the U.S. Air Force for 22 years, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel; and earning two master’s degrees, one in business administration and a second in public administration. He is an exemplary police chief.
Bill Drake has always demonstrated in his actions and behavior the ideals of fairness, integrity, equality and respect. Our law enforcement officers are challenged every day with the responsibility of protecting the safety of our residents, while putting themselves at risk. They are held to a high standard of professionalism and they are, and must be, accountable for their actions.

Recently, allegations have been made that question the high moral and ethical character that Chief Drake has displayed since coming to the City of Orting. We believe these allegations do not reflect or represent Chief Drake and that they are unfounded and untrue.

We are cooperating fully with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) review and have provided a response to the first EEOC complaint filed by Mr. Pickens. This response indicates the events that led to the decision not to retain Mr. Pickens. It should also be noted that the union representing Orting police officers chose to take no action regarding the City’s decision.

We are also cooperating fully with the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office investigation into the deplorable and offensive vandalism to Mr. Pickens’ personal vehicle. The City does not condone or tolerate hate speech and it is our sincere hope the Sheriff’s Office investigation results in a quick arrest and prosecution to the full extent of the law.