UPDATE: Major Chad Dickerson of the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office has announced his immediate retirement following serious charges of vehicular assault and driving under the influence (DUI). This shocking development comes just days after Dickerson was accused of causing a catastrophic crash in Graham, WA, that left multiple family members injured, including three young children.
On July 12, 2023, Dickerson, while off-duty, allegedly failed to yield at an uncontrolled intersection, colliding with a Ford Expedition that had the right-of-way. The crash resulted in significant injuries to the family inside, including a grandmother who suffered a fractured vertebra and multiple broken ribs. Emergency responders rushed to the scene after neighbors heard the collision and sprang into action to assist the victims.
According to court documents, responding deputies reported that Dickerson exhibited signs of intoxication, including an odor of alcohol and bloodshot eyes. A blood test conducted nearly four hours post-accident revealed a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.091, above the legal limit.
The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that they were informed of Dickerson’s retirement and will officially separate from him on Friday, October 24, 2023. In light of these events, Sheriff Keith Swank has initiated an internal investigation into the deputies who responded to the crash. Authorities are scrutinizing the handling of the incident, particularly the use of body cameras, as it appears some deputies turned off their cameras and cleared debris before Washington State Patrol arrived.
Dickerson is set to appear in court on November 6, 2023, regarding the vehicular assault charges. The implications of this case extend beyond just Dickerson’s career; it raises serious questions about accountability within the ranks of law enforcement and the protocols followed during critical incidents.
This story is developing, and the community is left to grapple with the impact of this incident. The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office is under increased scrutiny as they address not only the actions of one of their own but also the broader implications for public safety and transparency in law enforcement.
Stay tuned for updates on this urgent situation as it unfolds.
