Jaahnavi Kandula case: India seeks review after charges against cop dropped

The Indian Consulate in Seattle on Saturday strongly raised objections to local police over a cop being not charged for the death of 23-year-old Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula.

The Indian authorities said on X that they are monitoring the case and await the completion of Seattle Police's administrative investigation.

"On the recently released investigation report of the King County Prosecution Attorney on the unfortunate death of Jaahnavi Kandula, Consulate has been in regular touch with the designated family representatives and will continue to extend all possible support in ensuring justice for Jaahnavi and her family."

"We have also raised the matter strongly with local authorities, including Seattle Police for appropriate redress. The case has now been referred to Seattle City Attorney’s office for review."

"We await completion of Seattle Police's administrative investigation and will continue to monitor progress on the case."

On February 21, the King County Prosecutor’s Office said they will not move forward with criminal charges against Kevin Dave. The 23-year-old was struck by Dave's patrol vehicle when she crossed a street.

The bodycam footage showed another officer Daniel Auderer, who was not directly involved in the collision, laughing about the crash.

Auderer was captured in the video saying, "But she is dead" and laughing while on the phone.

"She was 26 anyway," Auderer said in the video. "She had limited value."

Auderer was later moved from patrol in September 2023 and reassigned to a "non-operational position."

The callous attitude displayed in the footage fueled anger among the Indian residents in Seattle, who sought greater accountability from the authorities.

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