Eugene Police Department officer resigns after body camera footage shows offensive language

Eugene, OR – An officer with the Eugene Police Department has resigned following the release of body camera footage showing the use of racist and deeply offensive language, according to a statement from Eugene Police Chief Chris Skinner.

In a public message addressing the incident, Chief Skinner stated that what was said in the footage was “unacceptable,” describing the remarks as wrong, disrespectful, and inconsistent with the values of the Eugene Police Department. He emphasized that there is no justification for racist language from any officer within the agency.

Skinner said he was “angry, disappointed, and deeply concerned” about the impact the incident has had on the community, particularly among residents who already experience distrust toward law enforcement. He stressed that all individuals in Eugene deserve to be treated with dignity, fairness, and respect regardless of their background.

The chief confirmed that the officer involved resigned on the same day the footage became public and is no longer employed by the department.

While acknowledging the resignation, Skinner said accountability must go beyond personnel actions, noting that the department will continue reviewing its policies, training, supervision, and internal culture to prevent similar incidents in the future.

He added that the behavior does not represent the broader work of the department’s officers, many of whom serve honorably, but acknowledged the seriousness of the damage caused to public trust.

The Eugene Police Department reaffirmed its commitment to professional policing, transparency, accountability, and equal treatment under the law for all community members.