Police chief resigns, sergeant investigated

MATTAWA – There are some strange happenings afoot in the Mattawa Police Department, but the principals involved aren't talking about them.

Judging from activity on a Facebook petition online, today's Mattawa City Council meeting should be well attended.

The first indication of personnel challenges within the department was Chief John Turley's announcement at the last Mattawa City Council meeting that he will resign from his post at the end of this month.

It was an abrupt announcement. Turley had said during his six years that Mattawa was the last place he'd likely work. He told the Council he's considering other options.

Then, the weekend following Turley's announcement, a woman by the last name of Calderon posted information about a petition circulating in the community and on Facebook aimed at saving Sgt. Tony Valdivia's job. The post said more than 150 signatures had been garnered.

Regarding his resignation, Turley said only that “it was time to move on.” He said he'd done all he could to improve the departement and it was time “for new blood.”

Regarding Valdivia, Turley said only that there was an internal investigation of the sergeant but that he could not elaborate.

Valdivia acknowledged he was the subject of a review, but he wouldn't say for what reason. He said he wants to stay on the force but that “it's in Mayor's (Scott Hyndman) hands.”

Valdivida did say the review was about personal relationships within the department. It had nothing to with crime.

Some residents may have questions this evening. The meeting will start at 5 p.m.