OLYMPIA, Wash. - Gov-elect Jay Inslee is reappointing State Patrol Chief John Batiste despite objections from the troopers union.
Inslee said Friday Batiste has demonstrated the kind of results-oriented leadership that every agency needs. The Washington State Patrol Troopers Association previously said that Batiste was out of touch and recommended Lakewood Police Chief Bret to replace him.
Gov. Chris Gregoire first appointed Batiste in 2005. He oversees around 2,400 employees while the union represents about 1,000.
Inslee also said Friday that he was keeping Corrections Secretary Bernard Warner in his cabinet. He said Warner has made some improvements to prison safety and the efficient use of resources.
