“The Seattle Police Department is committed to protecting the safety of all people. Jahnaavi Kandula was a valued member of our community and loved by those who knew her. Her death is a tragic example of a failure to keep Seattle safe. Since her death, we have instituted new officer… [ Keep reading ]
I’m extremely honored and grateful to continue in my role as Chief of Police for the Seattle Police Department and for the amazing community that I have come to care for here in Seattle. Public safety is a shared value, and our priorities remain intact: crime prevention, community engagement, retention… [ Keep reading ]
Today, we take time to honor the brave men and women who have served our country in uniform. To those of you who are veterans — and who continue to serve our community with the same integrity, dedication, honor, and courage — thank you. Your service to both our nation… [ Keep reading ]
The East Precinct is home to one of Seattle’s most diverse and vibrant communities, including many LGBTQ+ residents and small businesses. I am committed to ensuring the precinct’s leadership reflects our shared values of respect, inclusion, and fairness. I want to first acknowledge the concerns expressed by community members regarding… [ Keep reading ]
Over the past four days, the Seattle community tragically experienced three separate incidents of gun violence, resulting in the loss of lives. On Thursday, we were confronted with a targeted homicide occurring in front of a place of worship. While the motive for this premeditated act is still under investigation,… [ Keep reading ]
On July 9, 2025, Seattle started a new chapter for public safety when Chief Shon F. Barnes was sworn in as the city’s 38th police chief before a crowd of more than 200 police officers, elected officials, and community members. Held at Seattle’s Northwest African American Museum, the ceremony was… [ Keep reading ]
The Seattle Police Department is strongly committed to supporting marginalized communities and work every day to make sure they are safe in our city, especially in areas like Denny Blaine Park. We recognize the historic use of this park as an LGBTQIA+ gathering place and nude beach, and we are… [ Keep reading ]
Strengthening Public Safety Through Partnership and Action Seattle’s safety is a shared responsibility, and I am grateful for the continued support and collaboration of the Mayor’s Office, and our City Councilmembers as we work to make our city safer for everyone. In response to recent incidents and ongoing concerns, the… [ Keep reading ]
In the wake of recent news and events, I want to address head-on any concerns or fears in our community regarding the Seattle Police Department’s position on the immigration status of our community members. Let me be very clear: the policies of the Seattle Police Department regarding immigration status will not change…. [ Keep reading ]
Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes marked his first day at the Seattle Police Department on Thursday with meeting new colleagues, media interviews, and getting to know the community. Chief Barnes, 50, is a longtime law enforcement leader. He was the Chief of Police at the Madison (Wisc.) Police Department between… [ Keep reading ]
