There will soon be upcoming changes in command level positions within the Seattle Police Department. A change of assignment at any rank is both routine and encouraged, as it allows department employees to diversify their job skills and develop as professionals.
Interim Chief John Diaz says “While all those leaving their positions will be missed due to their unique skills and personalities, I have no doubt that the ‘newcomers’ will be bringing an abundance of energy, enthusiasm and experience to their new assignments.”
Captain Dave Emerick, a 25-year veteran of the police force, is leaving the Violent Crimes Section to become the new South Precinct commander. Captain Emerick will lead approximately 83 officers assigned to Patrol Operations, including a Community Police Team and a plain-clothes Anti-Crime Team. Captain Emerick has previously served in the Gang Unit, Narcotics Section, Homicide Unit and Harbor Patrol. This will be Captain Emerick’s first precinct command.
Captain Les Liggins, a 24-year veteran, is departing the South Precinct to assume command of the Narcotics Section, where he will oversee three squads of detectives and the Drug Court Liaison. Captain Liggins brings to the assignment experience leading the Metropolitan Section (SWAT, Mounted Patrol, and K9 Patrol), Fraud, Forgery and Financial Exploitation, Auto Theft, and Audit Accreditation and Policy.
Captain Mike Meehan, a 23-year veteran, is leaving the Narcotics Section to take over the Violent Crimes Section, which consists of overseeing the Homicide, Robbery, CSI, Gang, Polygraph, Bias Crimes and Fugitive Units. Captain Meehan has previously commanded East Precinct, Narcotics, Vice, Field Training and Audit, Accreditation and Policy.
Assistant Chief Nick Metz of the Patrol Operations Bureau says, “Captain Liggins will be sorely missed. He will undoubtedly bring the same level of dedication to his new command that he shared with officers and residents of the South Precinct. Captain Emerick, a former South Precinct sergeant, is a fine choice to lead the precinct and brings with him a vast amount of experience and technical knowledge.”
These changes will take effect on August 5, 2009.