The Salem City Council has reversed the appointment of Kyle Hedquist, a convicted murderer, to two influential advisory boards following significant public outcry. This decision, made during a special meeting on January 7, 2024, comes after weeks of backlash against the council’s initial vote to reappoint Hedquist to the Community Police Review Board and the Civil Service Commission.
Hedquist, who was convicted in 1995 for the murder of Nikki Thrasher, had been reinstated to these positions despite his past. His previous appointment, which occurred on December 8, 2023, was approved by a narrow 5 to 4 vote. At that time, the council was unaware that background checks had not been conducted for members of these boards. The Salem Statesman Journal reported that this lack of vetting meant that council members did not have complete information regarding Hedquist’s criminal history or clear guidelines on how such history should impact appointment decisions.
The controversy intensified after the reappointment, drawing criticism from local unions, including the Salem Police Employees Union and the Salem Professional Fire Fighters Local 314. Both unions publicly condemned the decision, arguing that appointing a convicted murderer to public safety roles undermined the credibility of city leadership. They initiated a campaign urging residents to contact council members, raising awareness of the issue.
During the recent meeting, residents expressed strong emotions, with many submitting written testimonies and speaking directly to the council. Councilor Deanna Gwyn stated she would not have supported Hedquist’s appointment had she been aware of his conviction. She highlighted the gravity of the situation by presenting a photo of Thrasher and sharing a note from her friend.
Hedquist addressed the council, visibly emotional, discussing the burden of his actions and his journey toward rehabilitation. He stated, “For 11,364 days, I have carried the weight of the worst decision of my life.” His wife revealed that their family had received death threats in response to the national attention the situation garnered.
The council’s decision to revoke Hedquist’s appointments reflects a significant shift in policy. Alongside reversing his appointments, the council adopted new rules mandating criminal background checks for applicants to the Community Police Review Board and the Civil Service Commission. Under these new standards, individuals convicted of violent felonies will be automatically disqualified from serving in these roles.
Councilor Vanessa Nordyke, who initially supported Hedquist’s reappointment, later expressed regret for not hearing public testimony before the December vote. She emphasized the importance of community feedback in such critical decisions.
In addition to the new background check requirements, the council also agreed to reserve at least one seat on the Community Police Review Board for someone with personal experience as a victim of a felony crime. This move aims to ensure that victim perspectives are adequately represented in police oversight discussions.
Following the meeting, Mayor Julie Hoy, who opposed Hedquist’s reappointment and supported its revocation, articulated her commitment to governance and public trust. In a statement on social media, she noted, “My vote was based on process, governance, and public trust, not ideology or personalities.”
The events surrounding Hedquist’s appointment and subsequent removal have highlighted significant concerns regarding governance and the integrity of advisory boards within the Salem city government. Councilor Brad Brown condemned the threats directed at council members, calling the situation a low point for civic discourse.
As the Salem City Council moves forward, the new policies aim to restore public trust and ensure that appointments to critical safety boards are made with greater transparency and accountability.
