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 the opportunity to learn new skills and develop as professionals.
“The promotion of these leaders is a positive step for the Seattle Police Department. Their collective wisdom and experience will serve the city well as the Department meets the challenges that lie ahead,” said Interim Chief John Diaz.
Lieutenant Jim Dermody, a 19-year veteran of the Department, is being promoted to the rank of Captain, and will take over as the new East Precinct commander. Captain Dermody will assume command of approximately 88 officers assigned to Patrol Operations, including a Community Police Team, and a plain-clothes Anti-Crime Team. Captain Dermody has previously served in Homicide, as both the watch commander and Operations Lieutenant for the West and Southwest Precincts, SWAT, and Anti-Crime and Patrol. This will be Captain Dermody’s first precinct command.
Captain Paul McDonagh is being promoted to the rank of Acting Assistant Chief in charge of the Special Operations Bureau. He is leaving the East Precinct, where he was the precinct commander for the past two years. Acting Assistant Chief McDonagh is a 26-year veteran of the Seattle Police Department. He will now oversee the Special Operations Bureau, which consists of the Criminal Intelligence, Homeland Security Section, Arson and Bomb Unit, SWAT, Mounted, Traffic, and the Seattle Police Operations Center.
Acting Assistant Chief Michael Sanford is being promoted to the permanent rank of Assistant Chief. Chief Sanford will remain in place as the Chief of Patrol Operations, overseeing the patrol operations of the Department and all five of the precincts. These promotions will be effective October 28th.
