‘Otto was a beloved son’; Spokane leaders mark 20 years since Otto Zehm’s death in police custody

SPOKANE, Wash – Spokane leaders marked a somber anniversary Friday: 20 years since a man named Otto Zehm died in the custody of Spokane Police.

Zehm was shopping at a gas station in north Spokane when police responded to erroneous calls that he was a threat.

Spokane Police responded and beat, tased and hogtied Zehm. He had been holding nothing but a bottle of soda.

Zehm stopped breathing and died at the hospital two days later.

Spokane Police Officer Karl Thompson was charged with violating Zehm’s civil rights and sentenced to 51 months in prison.

The incident led to extensive federal oversight of the Spokane Police Department and changes to department policy.

Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown, Council President Betsy Wilkerson and Police Chief Kevin Hall issued comments Friday, marking the dark chapter in Spokane history.

Today marks 20 years since the tragic death of Otto Zehm, an event that profoundly impacted Spokane and continues to shape conversations around justice, accountability, and public trust.

Otto was a beloved son, family member, friend, and coworker. His life was cut short in an encounter with law enforcement that raised serious questions about use of force tactics and the responsibility to protect every member of our community, especially those who are most vulnerable.

This tragedy served as a catalyst for reform within the City of Spokane and the Spokane Police Department. It led to improved training, like Crisis Intervention Training, the creation of the Behavioral Health Unit, and it deepened professionalism throughout the department. It also led to the creation of the Office of Police Ombuds, an important step in strengthening independent oversight and rebuilding community trust.

Since then, SPD continues to embrace ongoing training and improvement, implementing Enhanced Crisis Intervention Training, reviving Neighborhood Resource Officers to strengthen relationships with neighborhoods, and launching the Dialogue Policing Program in 2024. The relationship between SPD and the OPO has also deepened over time through the intention and effort of officers, SPD leadership, and the dedicated team of employees and commissioners in the OPO. Chief Hall has traveled with the OPO for national training on civilian oversight, and thanks to the overwhelming support of Spokane’s voters, the City increased funding to the OPO through the Community Safety Sales tax passed in 2024.

But on this somber anniversary, we are reminded that work to build community trust is ongoing and that we must continue to strive for systems that are transparent and grounded in respect for all.

Today and always, we honor Otto’s memory by reaffirming our commitment to those we serve and to making sure Spokane is a safe place for everyone.