Three officers are under investigation for separate, unrelated matters
information released
The Wenatchee Police Department is committed to maintaining public trust and transparency with our community. Chief Rick Johnson states that 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.”
Consistent with that commitment, the Department confirms that three Wenatchee police officers are under internal investigation. Two of these officers are also the subject of criminal matters being handled by outside agencies and both have been placed on administrative leave.
On September 12, 2026, Sergeant Cory Bernaiche was arrested for DUI while he was off-duty. Following the arrest, he was immediately placed on administrative leave pending the completion of both the criminal prosecution and the internal investigation. The criminal investigation was handled by the Washington State Patrol, and the criminal prosecution is being handled by the Chelan County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. The Wenatchee Police Department will be conducting the internal investigation for any alleged violations of department policies.
On September 22, 2026, Corporal Donny Graves was notified he is under an internal investigation. This internal investigation is related to alleged violations of department policies regarding the handling of an unattended death investigation (WPD Case No. 22W22217). The potential department policies involve evidence handling, untimely completion of reports, and/or an investigation that did not follow department protocol. The internal investigation is being conducted by the Kennewick Police Department.
On September 22, 2026, it was reported to Chief Johnson that an officer may have been involved in criminal conduct. Immediately thereafter, the officer was placed on administrative leave status. In addition, Chief Johnson contacted Douglas County Sheriff’s Office to conduct the criminal investigation, and they have agreed and are currently handling this matter. The internal investigation is being held in abeyance while the criminal investigation is being completed. The officer’s name will be released if they are charged with a crime.
In accordance with City policy and Washington State law, all necessary notifications have been made related to these investigations, including to local prosecuting agencies and to the appropriate Washington State agencies. The review process for each of these matters needs to be conducted thoroughly, fairly, and in accordance with due process. In order to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigations and prosecution, the City will not comment further on the specifics of these matters while they remain open, and will share additional information when it can be done without compromising these proceedings. The City remains committed to the safety of the public it serves.
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.”
