The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board has canceled a training session after discovering that Kim Potter, a former Minnesota police officer convicted of manslaughter, was scheduled to participate. Potter fatally shot Daunte Wright, an unarmed man, during a traffic stop in 2021. She claimed she mistook her service weapon for her taser and served 16 months of a two-year sentence.
Potter was set to speak at the training event for state law enforcement officers next week in Vancouver, Washington. The board chair, David Postman, stated that people were shocked and alarmed upon learning of her involvement. The event was called off out of respect for Wright’s family.
Daunte Wright’s mother, Katie, expressed her frustration and hurt, saying, “I don’t understand why she would have the audacity to feel like she has that right to even go into a community and benefit off our tragedy.” Katie added that she was relieved the event was canceled. Potter was supposed to present alongside former Washington County Assistant Prosecutor Imran Ali.
Training session cancellation
Ali mentioned that Potter’s participation in past events has been minimal and primarily unpaid. Postman noted that the board and agency director were unaware of Potter’s scheduled involvement. He emphasized that while agency staff currently have the authority to schedule speakers without upper-level approval, this policy could change moving forward.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison commented on the cancellation, expressing hope for reconsideration. He believes Potter’s experiences could contribute to better policing practices. However, Katie disagreed, doubting Potter’s ability to positively influence police training.
Katie frequently visits her son’s memorial to feel connected to him. The memorial features a metal sculpture with Daunte’s face and various symbols, as well as a picture of Daunte and a copy of his death certificate. Katie mentioned she is willing to visit police departments to discuss the impact of deadly force on families.
