Interim police chief vows more officers at events as Seattle urgently searches for chief
KOMO • • nation
Key Points:
- Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson confirmed she requested Police Chief Shon Barnes to resign earlier this week amid criticism over his travel and absence during a recent mass shooting.
- Deputy Chief Andre Sayles was appointed as Interim Chief of the Seattle Police Department, with Mayor Wilson expressing confidence in his leadership and emphasizing community engagement in the search for a permanent chief.
- Former Chief Barnes will receive a lump sum settlement of approximately $600,000, plus a $50,000 signing bonus and $60,000 relocation benefit.
- Interim Chief Sayles prioritized the ongoing investigation into the Seattle Center shooting and announced plans to increase police presence at summer events, while stating he is not currently seeking the permanent chief position.
- Mayor Wilson acknowledged communication failures following the Bite of Seattle shooting and stressed the need for improved coordination between the police department and her office.
