Salem Council Ousts Convicted Murderer from Public Safety Boards After Fierce Backlash
Salem, Oregon faced intense public scrutiny. The City Council made a significant reversal. They removed Kyle Hedquist from key public safety boards. This action followed strong public opposition. It also addressed deep community unease. Hedquist has a past murder conviction. This fact sparked widespread outrage. It led to a special council meeting. This meeting decided his fate on two vital commissions.
Initial Reappointment Sparks Outrage
The Salem City Council voted on December 8th. They reappointed Kyle Hedquist to two important posts. These were the Community Police Review Board. It was also the Civil Service Commission. The initial vote was narrow, 5-4. This decision immediately drew criticism. Public safety unions strongly opposed the move. Residents expressed significant disbelief. Many felt it was an inappropriate appointment. It directly impacted public trust. This trust is essential for city governance.
Hedquist’s Past and Release
Kyle Hedquist was convicted in 1995. He pleaded guilty to aggravated murder. The victim was 19-year-old Nikki Thrasher. Prosecutors described the killing as “execution-style.” Hedquist feared Thrasher would report him. He had stolen property at her home. Hedquist served nearly 28 years. His sentence was life without parole. Then-Governor Kate Brown commuted his sentence in 2022. This allowed his release into Salem. Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson criticized the commutation. She cited serious safety concerns. Douglas County DA Richard Wesenberg also objected. Sheriff Joe Kast voiced similar worries. A judge had previously determined Hedquist should not be released. His commutation was part of a policy shift. It focused on youth rehabilitation. However, this decision generated widespread unease. Many felt it showed a lack of community safety concern.
Board Roles and Union Concerns
The Community Police Review Board reviews complaints. It makes recommendations about police conduct. This board aims to foster public trust. The Civil Service Commission can influence fire department personnel. Placing a convicted murderer on these boards seemed problematic. Police and fire union leaders voiced apprehension. Union president Scotty Nowning called the decision unwise. He questioned providing training to someone with Hedquist’s history. Nowning also highlighted systemic issues. He stated the city needed stronger oversight. This involved fixing its appointment “guardrails.” These guardrails ensure suitable candidates. They are for roles requiring public trust.
Council Reconsiders and Votes to Remove
Public backlash intensified. This prompted the Salem City Council to reconsider. A special meeting occurred on January 7th. The meeting had a heightened police presence. Threats had been made against some council members. Many residents and union leaders testified. They urged the council to reverse its decision. Some councilors changed their votes. Councilor Vanessa Nordyke reversed her support. She cited public backlash. Councilor Linda Nishioka also changed her vote. She mentioned receiving more information. She also noted constituent concerns. The council then voted 6-2 to remove Hedquist. This overturned the December 8th decision. Councilors Irvin Brown and Mai Vang voted against removal. They upheld their original support. Mayor Julie Hoy and other councilors favored removal. They emphasized deep community concern. Some council members stated they lacked full information initially. Background checks were not consistently performed. This highlighted procedural flaws.
Hedquist’s Perspective and New Safeguards
Kyle Hedquist spoke at meetings. He discussed rehabilitation. He advocated for criminal justice reform. He noted his role offered a valuable perspective. He works for the Oregon Justice Resource Center. He has also lobbied the Oregon Legislature. Despite his views, the council moved to remove him. They also voted to implement new safeguards. Future appointments will require background checks. Individuals with violent felony convictions will be barred. This applies to the police review board. It also applies to the Civil Service Commission. These changes aim to prevent future controversies.
Conclusion
The Salem City Council’s decision reflects a shift. It followed significant public pressure. The removal of Kyle Hedquist addresses community fears. It also underscores the importance of public trust. The incident highlights ongoing debates. These concern rehabilitation versus suitability for oversight roles. Salem’s news shows how public opinion can impact governance. The new safeguards aim for greater transparency. They also seek to restore confidence. This event marks a significant moment for Oregon’s capital city. It is a news story with lasting implications.
