A Seattle parking enforcement officer who received one of the Seattle Police Department's highest honors three years ago is trying to sell the SPD medal on an online auction site.
Ken Newlin was honored with SPD's Medal of Courage after he helped save the lives of two people in one day.
On the Ebay page offering that medal for sale, Newlin says SPD officers came to his aid by donating sick leave and vacation time to help him after he suffered an on-the-job injury. He adds that he has to sell the medal because SPD is requiring him to repay those colleagues to the tune of $15,000.
When asked if officers are usually required to pay back co-workers for donated time, SPD spokesperson Det. Jeff Kappel said, "No, I've never seen it in my life, I've never seen it in my career."
Newlin's decision to sell the medal on Ebay does not violate SPD rules. "It was a very well earned award that he very much deserved, and it's a high honor to get what he got," said Det. Kappel.
But the department says Newlin's listing on Ebay doesn't tell the whole story.
"There is some critical information about this incident that is being omitted, and I am not at liberty to discuss it beyond that point," said Det. Kappel.
Newlin is on medical leave from his job. He did not respond to calls from KING 5 News. As for the auction, it ended Friday afternoon with no bidders.
He is currently in Arizona, where he currently faces allegations of driving under the influence and is due to appear in front of a judge on Tuesday.
