Three Wenatchee police officers face internal investigations

WENATCHEE. — Three Wenatchee police officers are under internal investigation, including two who are also the subjects of criminal matters being handled by outside agencies, the Wenatchee Police Department announced Wednesday.

Sgt. Cory Bernaiche was arrested Sept. 12 on suspicion of driving under the influence while off duty, according to the department. He was placed on administrative leave following the arrest.

The Washington State Patrol handled the criminal investigation, and the Chelan County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is handling the prosecution. Wenatchee police will conduct a separate internal investigation into alleged violations of department policies.

Cpl. Donny Graves was notified Sept. 22 that he is under internal investigation in connection with his handling of an unattended death investigation, identified as Wenatchee Police Department case 22W22217.

According to the department, the investigation involves potential policy violations related to evidence handling, untimely completion of reports and whether the investigation followed department protocol. The Kennewick Police Department is conducting the internal investigation.

A third officer was placed on administrative leave Sept. 22 after Chief Rick Johnson received a report that the officer may have been involved in criminal conduct. The department did not identify the officer or provide details about the alleged conduct.

Johnson asked the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office to conduct the criminal investigation. The department said its internal investigation will be held until the criminal investigation is completed. The officer’s name will be released if the officer is charged with a crime.

The department said required notifications have been made to local prosecutors and appropriate state agencies. City officials said they would not provide additional details while the investigations and prosecution remain open.

Johnson said he has an “unwavering commitment to the Department and to our community” and that he “will continue to lead with transparency, professionalism, and consistency to meet the needs of those we serve.”

Mayor Mike Poirier said, “The Wenatchee Police Department is held to the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, and the City is committed to addressing these matters fairly and thoroughly.”