INFORMATION RELEASE

Today, the City and Borough of Juneau released body-worn camera footage and related materials from the July 30, 2025 incident in which a Juneau Police Department (JPD) officer used force during an arrest that resulted in a serious head injury to the arrested individual.  The officer, who was in his probationary period, resigned on August 28, 2025.

This release is part of the City’s ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability and in accordance with CBJ Code (Ordinance 2025-05(c)(am)). In addition to the body-worn video, the City has published dashboard camera footage and applicable JPD policies. All materials are available online at bit.ly/jpd-incident-july30.

City Manager Katie Koester stated, “This has been a painful event for our community. The officer’s resignation reflects the seriousness of what occurred, and our obligation to uphold the standards of conduct our community expects. Accountability means not only reviewing the facts but acting on them. I want to be clear: the Juneau Police Department is full of good and hardworking people who serve with professionalism, empathy and integrity. One incident does not define the department. We’re committed to using this moment to strengthen relationships and to listen and learn from all impacted voices.”

She added, “Chief Bos has been in contact with the family of the individual who was injured, and we are keeping them in our thoughts. Out of respect for their privacy, we will defer any questions regarding his condition or legal matters to the family.”

The officer was placed on administrative leave following the incident. JPD immediately requested an investigation of the incident by an independent third party. That investigation is ongoing.

JPD Chief of Police Derek Bos stated, “What happened on July 30 was not consistent with department policy, values or the conduct we expect from our officers. As Chief, I take responsibility for ensuring our department earns and maintains the public’s trust. We have already begun reviewing JPD directives, implementing policy clarifications as well as additional training focused on de-escalation, proportionality in use-of-force, and medical response protocols.”

As part of the City’s commitment to long-term healing and improved relationships, the Juneau Police Department will also participate in cultural sensitivity training. This training is designed to deepen officers’ understanding of Indigenous history, values, and lived experiences in Juneau, and to reinforce the department’s role as a respectful and responsive community partner.

“This training is not a checkbox. It’s a step toward meaningful connection,” said City Manager Katie Koester.
In addition, Tlingit & Haida has offered to co-host a community dialogue with the City to create space for open and respectful conversations about the community’s relationship with law enforcement. The event will be designed to elevate voices, share perspectives, and chart a path forward rooted in trust, accountability, and shared values.

“We need to approach the dialogue in a thoughtful manner and recognize that it will be difficult for many in our community who have experienced trauma. We’re grateful to Tlingit & Haida for their leadership and willingness to engage with us on this important work,” said Manager Koester. Details about the training and dialogue event will be shared in the coming weeks.

All referenced videos and materials are accessible at: bit.ly/jpd-incident-july30.
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