Injured officer released from hospital
COEUR D'ALENE — Coeur d'Alene Police patrol officer Charles Hatley emerged from Kootenai Health Friday morning to the cheers and warm embrace of his community. Scores of law enforcement officers and fire department personnel were on hand as the police trainee bade farewell to the hospital.
Hatley was shot once Tuesday night by three-time felon Curtis Ware. When officers tried to arrest Ware on an outstanding felony warrant, Ware allegedly opened fire. Ware died when officers returned fire, said Coeur d'Alene Police Chief Lee White on Wednesday. Hatley was shot once through the gunbelt on his left side and taken to Kootenai Health.
Hatley thanked the community for its outpouring of support for him and his family.
“It's extremely overwhelming, and it means more than any of you guys know.”
He said he had received many encouraging messages and cards, including some funny cards from kids that helped lighten up things for him. He said the work of the medical staff had enabled him to recover very well. Hatley thanked his fellow officers for helping him get through this difficult time.
“I've only been here a little bit of time prior to this incident and I got to witness how big the law enforcement community really is. It's awesome. You guys are very supportive. I couldn't ask for anything else.”
Hatley singled out his wife for her support, calling her and their newborn baby his greatest source of strength.
While leaving the hospital to head home, Hatley said he felt “wonderful.”
Coeur d'Alene Police Detective Jared Reneau said Hatley's brothers in arms felt the same way.
“I don't think we could be happier. We are very grateful to the Kootenai Medical staff and happy for officer Hatley and his family.”
Reneau added that everyone looked forward to seeing Hatley back on patrol.