SPOKANE COUNTY, Wash. — Spokane Police Department's (SPD) Major Crimes unit completed its investigation into a Spokane County deputy accused of using excessive force while arresting a 62-year-old man at Terrace View Park.
SPD is recommending second-degree assault charges be filed against Spokane County Sgt. Clay Hilton and are sending their recommendation to the Spokane County Prosecutor's Office. The prosecutor's office will now review the case and determine if any charges will be filed.
Last October, excessive force allegations came out against Hilton.
This all came after the 62-year-old man allegedly was beaten so severely by a Spokane County sergeant the county jail refused to take him in back in August 2023.
The man's attorneys say the 62-year-old man had just driven 11 hours and pulled into Terrace View Park in Spokane Valley on the night of August 14 to take a break. That's when a Sgt. Hilton approached the driver's side window of his car.
After a brief discussion, the 62-year-old man tried to shut his car door when Hilton said he was not free to leave. From there, the two men continued arguing and the situation escalated.
The man sued the county, claiming the sergeant used excessive force during their interaction.
Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels released the following statement regarding the conclusion of the investigation:
I thank the Spokane Police Department for their professionalism while conducting this independent and thorough investigation.
I know and understand misconduct allegations are of great concern to our community. Again, I assure you that claims of misconduct are, and will be, taken seriously. That’s why I requested the Spokane Police Department investigate this incident independently.
In addition, now that the criminal investigation has been conducted, I ordered the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office of Professional Standards to begin a comprehensive internal investigation to identify any and all policy violations and what changes or possible training is needed moving forward. As per policy and Washington State Civil Service law, Sergeant Hilton remains on paid administrative leave during this time, pending the internal investigation.
I again ask you, the community we serve, for your patience as this continues through the criminal justice system and our internal investigations process. We must ensure the rights of everyone involved are protected while resisting the urge to rush toward judgment.
I have, and always will, uphold my sworn oath. I am honored by the enormous trust you have bestowed upon me and everyone at the Sheriff’s Office. We will continue to provide you with the highest level of service you deserve and expect.
KREM 2 has reached out to the 62-year-old man's lawyers for comments on SPD's recommendation.
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