Everett police officer charged in sex act, resigns from force

An Everett police officer has resigned from the force after being charged with sexual misconduct in an incident involving a woman Oct. 11.

The charge was brought against Blaine E. Lassich, who resigned from the department in March, said Sgt. Boyd Bryant, Everett police spokesman. The charge was filed April 27 in Everett District Court.

The incident reportedly took place after Lassich told the woman to get in the front seat of a patrol car, said Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Craig Matheson. He said Lassich then forced the woman to perform a sex act. The act was interrupted by a radio call, Matheson said, and the woman reported the incident to police shortly afterward.

Over several months, the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office investigated the allegation, acting as an uninvolved agency.

Matheson said investigators were able to confirm the circumstances of the alleged event through details given by the woman and supporting evidence, including the radio call.

Lassich, 45, was an officer for more than 10 years and at one time had been assigned to vice and gambling enforcement.

Lassich will have an initial appearance in Everett District Court on May 18. The assault charge carries a penalty of up to a year in prison and a $5,000 fine.

Lassich could not be reached for comment and is believed to have moved out of state, Matheson said.

Peyton Whitely: 206-464-2259 or pwhitely@seattletimes.com