SEATTLE — Seattle police say they have apologized to a 69-year-old man arrested last summer after refusing an officer’s commands to drop a golf club he was carrying on a city street.
The Seattle Times identified him as William Wingate and said he used the golf club as a cane. Court documents and a patrol car video show the female officer contended he swung the club in a threatening manner as she drove past him.
Police say department commanders and the city attorney reviewed the case after a former state lawmaker questioned the necessity of the arrest for investigation of obstruction and harassment.
The Times says the man’s conviction for unlawful use of a weapon was dismissed.
Police say Deputy Chief Carmen Best met with the man, returned his golf club and apologized.
On Wednesday, Chief Kathleen O’Toole ordered a review of the officer’s performance. Police did not identify the officer.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.