On February 17, 2024, our community lost Jeffrey Moss, a 51-year-old father, grandpa, and friend, after he was struck and killed by a Wichita Police Department patrol SUV driven by Officer Ryan C. Deville.

Evidence shows that Officer Deville was distracted for over 20 seconds while deleting emails on his in-car computer, and he was driving 7 mph over the speed limit at night in an area near a bar and apartment complexes where pedestrian activity is common. Despite these facts, no criminal charges have been filed. 

This decision raises serious concerns about accountability and public safety in Wichita. Kansas courts have made clear that prolonged distraction and unsafe driving can constitute a “material deviation” from the duty of care required under state law. No one should be above the law, and law enforcement officers must be held to the same standards as the citizens they serve.

We, the undersigned, call for the following actions:

1. An independent outside investigation into the conduct of Officer Ryan C. Deville and the Wichita Police Department. This investigation must be conducted by an agency or authority outside of WPD and KHP to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability.
2. Filing of appropriate criminal charges against Officer Ryan C. Deville. Based on the prolonged distraction, excessive speed, and foreseeable pedestrian risk, we believe this conduct meets the standard of vehicular homicide under Kansas law.
3. The removal of District Attorney Marc Bennett. By refusing to hold law enforcement officers criminally accountable under clear evidence of wrongdoing, DA Bennett has undermined public trust in the justice system and failed in his duty to apply the law equally. Wichita and Sedgwick County deserve leadership that prioritizes justice over politics.
4. Policy reforms within WPD to prevent future tragedies, including strict restrictions on non-emergency use of in-car computers while vehicles are in motion.

 By signing this petition, you are demanding accountability, transparency and equal application of the law in Wichita.                                                                     

Not just for my dad Jeff, but for Cedric Lofton, for Andrew Finch and everyone else whom has been a victim of the Wichita Police Department  

Justice for Jeff. Accountability for all.