by Adrian Diaz

To the Members of the Seattle Police Department –  

The mission of the Seattle Police Department centers on preventing and responding to criminal behavior. Throughout my time on the department, and I am sure long before then, we have repeatedly said that Patrol 911 Response is the backbone of the department. We have not always supported that statement with sufficient resources. We also have consistently heard from community that they want to see officers more, have them respond faster to emergency calls, and spend more time getting to know neighbors and working with them to solve issues leading to criminal behavior. In recent weeks, every day we have seen the demands placed on patrol – from working in the community throughout the COVID-19 crisis to responding to on-going civil unrest.  

To better align department resources with our mission statement and community expectations, today we are beginning the process of re-assigning department resources to add over 100 officers and supervisors to our 911 Response team. Conversations have begun with SPOG and potentially effected individuals. The anticipated start date for these new resources in Patrol will be September 16th. We are confirming the final details of how assignments will be made, and more information will follow from your chain of command and Human Resources. 

Everyone in the department has been doing amazing work.  Patrol has been asked to continue to respond to a growing number of issues without additional resources. We begin to address that today. We will continue to deliver comprehensive police services, with our focus on preventing and responding to crimes in the community.  

Thank you for all you day every day. Stay safe.  

Adrian Diaz 

Chief of Police