Cop found guilty of needlessly beating man then lying to cover it up

The Spokesman-Review
Nov. 04, 2011

YAKIMA - A jury today convicted Spokane Police Officer Karl F. Thompson Jr. of needlessly beating Otto Zehm and then lying about it to cover up his actions.

The verdict comes five years and seven months since Zehm’s life ended and growing questions of police accountability began.

Prosecutors are expected to seek a prison term of six to eight years, arguing that Thompson was in a position of trust and that Zehm, who was schizophrenic, was particularly vulnerable.

“We are greatly relieved, the jury performed its duty,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Durkin, who oversaw preparations for the federal case. “It’s not something we take any joy in. But it’s a very important case and we still have a lot of work to do.”

Despite the criminal conviction, U.S. District Court Judge Fred Van Sickle allowed Thompson, 64, to remain free despite a request by federal prosecutors to immediately detain him, which is mandatory for violent crimes.

Read More