The recent revelations about Centralia Police Department Interim-Commander David Clary’s actions during the Oct. 11 incident demand swift and decisive accountability.
Commander Clary reportedly responded to a high-risk tactical situation while under the influence of alcohol, a decision that not only endangered lives but blatantly violated department policies.
Even more alarming is the assertion that Interim Chief Andy Caldwell knowingly allowed Clary to participate despite being informed of his alcohol consumption.
For these reasons, Commander Clary must be terminated, and Chief Caldwell must face accountability for his negligence.
Alcohol and law enforcement are an unacceptable combination, particularly in situations involving firearms, a violent suspect, and innocent bystanders.
Clary’s impaired judgment potentially led to critical tactical errors.
His failure to secure the suspect promptly, mishandling of a weapon within the suspect’s reach, and disregard for basic safety protocols endangered his officers, the suspect and a hotel receptionist.
These errors were compounded by his decision to allow the suspect to dictate the terms of his arrest, a clear violation of standard operating procedures.
Clary’s decision to respond after consuming alcohol shows a fundamental lack of judgment and respect for the responsibilities of his position.
Driving a city vehicle, issuing commands and handling firearms under the influence not only violate department policies but also erodes public trust in the Centralia Police Department.
His actions jeopardized the safety of everyone at the scene and created unnecessary risks in an already volatile situation.
Even more troubling is Interim Chief Caldwell’s role in this failure of leadership.
By allowing Clary to respond despite knowing he had consumed alcohol, Caldwell showed gross negligence and a disregard for public and officer safety. A police chief’s duty is to uphold the highest standards of accountability and professionalism. Caldwell’s decision to enable Clary’s recklessness undermines the department’s integrity and raises serious questions about his fitness to lead.
Termination of Commander Clary is not just warranted — it is essential.
His actions represent a severe breach of trust, and allowing him to remain in his role would send a dangerous message that such behavior is acceptable.
Moreover, the Centralia Police Department must strengthen its policies to ensure that no officer, regardless of rank, is allowed to respond to critical incidents under the influence of alcohol.
Implementing mandatory substance testing for officers called to high-stakes situations would be a good starting point.
Public trust in law enforcement hinges on the belief that officers will act with professionalism and sound judgment. Clary’s actions, and Caldwell’s complicity, have violated that trust.
Accountability is non-negotiable, and the department must act decisively to rebuild its credibility.
Terminating Clary and holding Caldwell accountable are necessary steps to demonstrate a commitment to the community’s safety and to the integrity of the Centralia Police Department.
Centralia deserves better from its police leaders.
Anything less than Clary’s termination would be a failure to address this egregious misconduct and a disservice to the citizens who rely on law enforcement to protect them.
Bo D. Rupert
Centralia
