WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) announced that Whatcom County Undersheriff Steve Harris was put on paid administrative leave on August 30th pending an investigation into complaints received by Sheriff Donnell “Tank” Tanksley and Whatcom County Human Resources.
On November 4th, an email from Tanksley was sent to members of the media announcing that Harris has been reinstated to full duty on November 1st following an assessment of an independent investigation.
The report, dated October 25th (see below), was published by an independent contractor hired to “conduct a fact-finding investigation into allegations against WCSO Undersheriff Steve Harris, including hostile work environment, retaliation, discrimination, code of conduct violations, unprofessionalism, and other concerns.”
According to the report, complaints centered around personnel decisions including promotions, hiring and payroll along with unprofessional behavior while communicating with WCSO personnel.
The investigation discovered that in some instances Harris was being blamed for unpopular decisions that someone else had made. Harris admitted to failing to maintain a professional demeaner in some instances while communication with WCSO personnel.
Tanksley said, “I am taking measures to address the concerns expressed.”
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