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Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes Discusses Youth Violence and School Resource Officers
After two Rainier Beach High School students were shot and killed last week, Seattle Police Department (SPD) Chief Shon Barnes held a press conference, followed by a conversation with The Big O at the Northwest African American Museum in Seattle’s Central District. The Chief discussed youth violence, the evolving challenges of public safety, and the role of police officers in schools.
Mayor-Elect Wilson's In-Depth Sit-Down Reveals a Community Organizer's Plan for City Hall
Mayor-elect Katie Wilson recently appeared on “The Big O Show” to discuss her transition into office and her administration's priorities, including homelessness and public safety. Wilson announced for the first time that she will keep Shon Barnes as Seattle Police Chief. "I've had several conversations now with Chief Barnes and I will be retaining him as our police chief,” she said.
Amid Legal Controversies, Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz Is Out; Sue Rahr Appointed Interim Chief
On Wednesday, May 29th, Mayor Bruce Harrell announced at a press conference that Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz will relinquish his role as head of the department. In his place, Mayor Harrell appointed former King County Sheriff Sue Rahr as interim chief. Diaz's departure follows multiple lawsuits alleging gender discrimination and harassment by several female officers within the department and another lawsuit filed against the department last week. These legal challenges have prompted Mayor Harrell to appoint an independent investigation of the department.