Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell announced Shon Barnes as the next Chief of the Seattle Police Department (SPD) following a nationwide search. Barnes, who has served as the Chief of Police in Madison, Wisconsin, since 2021, is recognized for reducing crime, improving community-police relations, and driving cultural change in law enforcement. He will officially begin his new role in January, starting with a series of meetings to connect with community members across the city.
“Earlier this week, under tragic circumstances, the nation received its introduction to Chief Shon Barnes,” said Mayor Harrell. “We all saw firsthand what our team has known since we began this recruitment process – that Chief Barnes possesses the impressive leadership capabilities, compassionate approach, and dedication to effective police work needed to continue moving our Police Department forward.”
The mayor also acknowledged Madison officials and emphasized a broader commitment to tackling gun violence. “I’ve spoken with Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway to express my condolences and support as they process this week’s tragedy and to share my continued commitment to fighting for solutions to the gun violence epidemic that impacts every corner of our country through our shared work with the U.S. Conference of Mayors,” Harrell said.
Barnes has more than 24 years of experience in law enforcement, including roles as a civilian police accountability executive in Chicago and in leadership positions with police departments in Greensboro and Salisbury, North Carolina. In Madison, he implemented evidence-based strategies that contributed to a 67% decrease in homicides and substantial reductions in auto thefts, burglaries, and gunfire incidents.
“I am truly honored to accept this position and thank Mayor Harrell for his trust and confidence,” Barnes said. “The mayor and I share a vision that crime prevention and community safety is a shared responsibility and that every community member plays a role in keeping Seattle safe.”
Barnes added that he and his family are excited about integrating into Seattle’s “vibrant community, known for its diversity, innovation, and resilience.”
The search for a new police chief began in mid-2024 and was led by Interim Chief Sue Rahr and former Chief Kathleen O’Toole, both highly respected leaders in law enforcement. The process drew 57 applicants from across the country, which were narrowed to 44 qualified candidates. Three finalists were ultimately presented to the mayor following a competitive exam required by the City Charter: Barnes,
Nicholas Augustine of Montgomery County, Maryland, and Emada Tingirides of the Los Angeles Police Department.
Public input played a significant role in the process, with six “Safer Seattle” community forums held in neighborhoods such as South Park, Rainier Beach, and Queen Anne. An online survey also provided feedback that helped shape the job description and priorities for the position.
Mayor Harrell praised the unique approach to the search process, emphasizing its focus on recruiting the best possible candidates to lead the department.
“Chief Barnes will bring proven experience and a forward-looking vision to help us realize our One Seattle commitment to safety for every person in every neighborhood,” Harrell said. “We took a different approach to this search process than those of the past, as we sought to seek out and recruit the best possible chief for SPD’s future. I am confident Chief Barnes is that leader, and that he can further advance positive strides in public safety in Seattle, rooted in innovation, accountability, and community partnership.”
The announcement has drawn praise from a variety of local and national leaders.
“I extend a warm welcome to Chief Barnes to Seattle and congratulate him on the opportunity to lead one of the finest police departments in the country and build on the work that makes it so,” said Seattle City Councilmember Bob Kettle, chair of the Public Safety Committee. “We will work to ensure our new chief can hit the ground running as we all work, as One Seattle, to create the safe base that our city needs to be so that families, communities, and businesses can thrive.”
Bishop Reggie Witherspoon of Mount Calvary Christian Center highlighted Barnes’ leadership qualities, referencing a quote from author Simon Sinek.
“‘Leadership is not about being in charge, but about taking care of those in your charge.’ This is what Seattle is getting in Chief Shon Barnes,” Witherspoon said. “With Barnes in charge, I am encouraged!”
Zabrina Jenkins, a community member who participated in the interview process, echoed those sentiments.
“It is an honor to have been part of the interview panel for selecting our new Chief of Police,” Jenkins said. “The process has reaffirmed the importance of finding a leader who embodies integrity, expertise, and a deep dedication to serving our community. I am confident that Chief Barnes possesses the essential qualities to make the department successful and keep the community safe.”
Barnes has received national recognition for his work, including induction into the Policing Hall of Fame at George Mason University’s Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy in 2024. He served as a subject matter expert for the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division and participated in President Obama’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing. He has also been recognized as a National Institute of Justice Law Enforcement Advancing Data and Science Scholar.
Interim Chief Sue Rahr, who was appointed in May 2024 and will continue to advise SPD during the transition, expressed optimism about Barnes’ leadership.
“I am very excited to see Chief Shon Barnes join the Seattle Police Department,” Rahr said. “He has achieved a national reputation for his focus on research and innovation while remaining centered on the core values of community policing. His skills and knowledge are just what SPD needs to take it to the next level.”
Barnes holds a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, a master’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Cincinnati, and a bachelor’s degree in History/Pre-Law from Elizabeth City State University.
Barnes and his wife, Dr. Stephanie Dance-Barnes, a leader in higher education and expert in cancer biology, have three children. Together, they look forward to integrating into Seattle’s community and continuing their work in building strong, inclusive partnerships.