Seattle Begins Search For Permanent Police Chief
SEATTLE — Seattle is beginning its nationwide search for a permanent police chief, just over a year after Carmen Best retired following a tumultuous tenure during the 2020 racial justice protests. Interim chief Adrian Diaz has led the department since last March, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell said he could still land the permanent role.
"Facing increasing crime, gun violence, and public safety issues, our next permanent chief must be able to respond to these challenges with urgency and innovation," Harrell said Thursday. "This comprehensive search will determine the leader best equipped to fill this challenging role and move our department forward. As we work to make immediate and long-term safety improvements at 12th and Jackson, 3rd Avenue, and neighborhoods citywide, I have been pleased with Interim Chief Diaz's approach and commitment to progress on public safety. Although I expect to conduct a robust search process, I encourage Interim Chief Diaz to apply."
The mayor's office said the search process will utilize a third-party firm to find potential candidates for the job across the nation, and the city will also rely on community engagement. A formal search committee composed of local leaders, law enforcement experts, Community Police Commission members, and representatives from small businesses and communities of color will help select candidates that to move forward in the process. The city also plans to launch an online survey where residents can provide direct feedback.
Seattle's charter requires the mayor to select three finalists for the job, and the ultimate selection will be subject to approval from the Seattle City Council.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/seattle-begins-search-for-permanent-police-chief/ar-AAVKTbO