Clark County ethics panel votes to investigate deputy over use of uniform in private business materials

The Clark County Ethics Commission voted to open an investigation into a complaint alleging that a county law-enforcement official used his public role for private political advantage.

Commissioner Murray said the complaint, filed by Bob Williamson, alleges "Duncan Haas, the chief civil deputy of the Clark County Sheriff's Office and a member of the Clark County Charter Review Commission, displayed himself in uniform next to a sheriff's office vehicle on the website for his private business" and also alleges Haas "told staff members to look for his name on the ballot." Murray reviewed the applicable ethical standards and state statutes the commission considers when deciding whether to investigate.

"Today, I would vote in favor of any motion to rule that sufficient cause exists to warrant an investigation of this complaint," Murray said before the motion was made and seconded. Commissioner Bart moved to forward the matter to an investigation; the motion was seconded and passed by voice vote. The commission announced the county will conduct an investigation and will consider the county's investigation report in due course.

The commission discussed legal sources it may consider when investigating, including references to provisions of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) noted in the meeting and Clark County personnel policies. Murray said RCW provisions cited include restrictions on using one’s position to secure special privileges and on using agency facilities or resources to assist a campaign. The commission also noted that some listed references in the complaint did not match current statute numbering and urged submitters to verify citations.

The vote ordered an investigation; it did not determine whether any violation occurred. The investigation will be conducted by county staff, and the commission said it will review the resulting report at a future meeting.