Killer reappointed to Salem police board amidst controversy.

A convicted Oregon killer, Kyle Hedquist, has been reappointed to Salem’s Community Police Review Board despite opposition and warnings from law enforcement about his violent past, following a narrow city council vote on Dec. 8. Hedquist, who served 27 years in prison for the murder of a 19-year-old woman, had his sentence commuted by former Gov. Kate Brown in 2022. The reappointment overrides a recommendation to leave the seat vacant, raising concerns about vetting procedures and public trust. Despite controversy, Councilor Mai Vang defended Hedquist’s perspective on the board, emphasizing his potential for change and unique experience within the criminal justice system.

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