City Administrator: Knezovich Lies About “Sexual Assault” in Press Release

Spokane, Wash. — Spokane City Administrator Theresa Sanders accused Sheriff Knezovich of lying about her attempt to influence the language of a news release concerning an alleged sexual assault by a Spokane Police Officer. According to Knezovich, Sanders did not want the words “sexual assault” in the press release, because they are “inflammatory”. In a KHQ interview, Sanders vehemently denied the allegation, calling it a “fabrication” and promising “consequences” for the Sheriff.

sanders1KHQ: To your knowledge, was there any move on the part of the City to call this anything but a “sexual assault”?

Sanders: No, there never was, and, you know, Ozzie’s remarks are a pure fabrication, and there will in fact be consequences for him perpetuating that lie. I consider it to be a personal attack on my reputation and I intend to take action.

KHQ: When you heard [the remarks], what was your first reaction?

Sanders: That it was a complete fabrication, and I was amazed that the Sheriff would perpetuate a fabrication of that nature.

References

KHQ
City Administrator, Theresa Sanders comments on SPD sexual assault accusation

Spokesman-Review
City administrator denies she tried to influence news about alleged sexual assault

Inlander
City Administrator denies she wanted to remove “sexual assault” from a news release about a police officer accused of rape