Seattle Police Chief Diaz Steps Down, Former King County Sheriff Sue Rahr Appointed Interim Chief

Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz Steps Down, Former King County Sheriff Sue Rahr Appointed Interim Chief

In a surprising announcement at a press conference on Wednesday, Mayor Bruce Harrell revealed that Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz will be stepping down from his position to work on special projects. The mayor appointed former King County Sheriff Sue Rahr as the interim chief, praising her extensive experience in law enforcement and commitment to community policing.

Diaz, who took over as chief in September 2022 after serving as interim chief for two years, has faced a series of controversies during his tenure. The department has been embroiled in lawsuits alleging racial and gender discrimination, as well as reports of a toxic work culture. Despite these challenges, Harrell commended Diaz for his dedication to the department and highlighted his accomplishments, including the launch of community policing initiatives and efforts to improve departmental compliance.

Rahr, who has a strong background in law enforcement and served on President Obama’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing, has indicated that she will not be a candidate for the permanent chief position. She emphasized her commitment to listening to the concerns of SPD staff and working towards creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

The announcement comes at a critical time for the Seattle Police Department, which has been struggling to rebuild its ranks amid a wave of officer departures. Harrell and city council members have made police hiring a top priority, approving new hiring bonuses and pay increases to attract experienced officers to join the force.

As Rahr prepares to take on her new role as interim chief, she has pledged to prioritize recruitment and focus on improving the department’s culture. With the support of former chief Kathleen O’Toole, the city aims to find a new permanent chief within the next 4-6 months.

The transition in leadership signals a new chapter for the Seattle Police Department, as it seeks to address ongoing challenges and rebuild trust with the community.