Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes selected to lead Seattle Police Dept. (Re: Recent Madison Shooting)

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Posted on 12/20/2024 10:41:47 AM PST by Diana in Wisconsin

Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes is leaving the department after being selected to lead the Seattle Police Department, the Seattle Mayor’s Office announced.

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell said Barnes was chosen after a nationwide search. Chief Barnes has been with the Madison Police Department since 2021.

Communities nationwide heard from Barnes this week after a 15-year-old student opened fire at Abundant Life Christian School, in Madison, killing two people and wounding several others.

“Earlier this week, under tragic circumstances, the nation received its introduction to Chief Shon Barnes,” said Seattle Mayor Bruce 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.” Mayor Harrell added that he expressed his condolences to Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway as the community heals from the deadly attack.

Chief Barnes said he is honored to accept the position.

“My family and I are excited about the opportunity to integrate into Seattle’s vibrant community, known for its diversity, innovation, and resilience,” Barnes stated. “I look forward to working alongside the dedicated men and women of the Seattle Police Department to uphold these core values.”

While the announcement was made Friday morning, a video posted to the City of Seattle YouTube account on Thursday afternoon shows Barnes introducing himself as Seattle’s new chief of police. He acknowledges the tragic shooting in Madison, and said his immediate responsibility is supporting Madison officers.

“I look forward to joining you in person next month to learn more about the Seattle Police Department and our commitment to safety and service,” Barnes said in the video. “I want to emphasize the importance of unity and collaboration. These values were on full display this week.”

He is expected to be introduced to the Seattle community in January of 2025. Seattle Mayor Harrell said he believes Barnes will help the city realize its “One Seattle” commitment to the safety of every person in every neighborhood.

“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,” Harrell said.

NBC affiliate KING 5 confirmed previously that Barnes was a top contender for the position.

Barnes previously served as the Director of Training and Professional Development for the Civilian Office of Police Accountability in Chicago. He was also the Deputy Chief of Police in Salisbury, North Carolina (2017-2020) and a Captain with the Greensboro Police Department where he started as a patrol officer in the fall of 2000.

Barnes has previously considered leaving Madison on two other occasions. In 2023, he was a semi-finalist for Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department, but ultimately did not get the job. In Oct. 2024, he spoke with San Jose city officials about available positions, but did not formally interview.

Through an open records request, 15 News obtained an email from Barnes dated Oct. 23, in which he assured the department of his commitment to Madison.

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Announced within the hour. His staff did not know he was leaving.

To: Diana in Wisconsin

2 posted on 12/20/2024 10:43:30 AM PST by Diana in Wisconsin (I don't have, 'Hobbies.' I'm developing a robust Post-Apocalyptic skill set.)

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