We Are Deeply Frustrated and Disappointed Over the Decision to Not Charge the Officer Who Killed Iosia Faletogo

The Washington Coalition for Police Accountability (WCPA) is deeply disappointed and frustrated by the King County Prosecutor’s decision not to charge the Seattle officer who fatally shot Iosia Faletogo in December 2018. This decision marks yet another example of how our system fails to hold law enforcement officers accountable for taking the lives of people in our community. 

It is disheartening to witness a justice system that consistently chooses to protect officers over the people they are sworn to serve. Once again, we ask: Who will hold officers accountable if not the justice system?

“We live in a time when the justice system chooses to protect officers over the people they're sworn to serve. My brother was murdered by those entrusted to protect him, and since his last breath, I’ve fought tirelessly for justice—not just for him, but for every life lost, for every family broken, for every community scarred. When we allow misconduct to go unchecked, we pave a path of irreversible, generational harm. It’s time to demand accountability, transparency, and change. If not us, then who? If not now, then when?" — Nickeia Hunter, impacted family member.

We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Iosia Faletogo’s family and friends, who have waited six long years for a semblance of justice, only to be met with this devastating outcome. The decision not to file charges undermines the core principles that all people—regardless of their background—deserve to feel safe whether they are driving in their neighborhood or elsewhere, and that law enforcement officers will be held to the same standards as everyone else when they use deadly force.

This case also highlights the urgent need for reforms to strengthen pretextual stop laws and establish a state-wide independent prosecutor. The lack of accountability in cases like Iosia’s reinforces our call for systemic changes that put an end to police violence, especially where we see disproportionate impacts on marginalized communities.

The WCPA will continue fighting for true accountability and justice for all victims of police violence. We call on local and state leaders and the public to demand a system that reflects fairness, transparency, and equality under the law.