Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson requests resignation of Police Chief Shon Barnes following mass shooting and leadership concerns
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson has requested the resignation of former Police Chief Shon Barnes, who will be succeeded by interim chief Andre Sayles. The decision follows a deadly gang-related mass shooting at the Bite of Seattle festival, where Barnes was out of state during the crisis. Additional factors contributing to the resignation include a federal tax lien of over $86,000 filed against Barnes and his wife, communication issues between the mayor's office and the police department, and disagreements over security camera installations. While Barnes will receive a700,000 severance package, the administration announced a search for a permanent replacement who can lead organizational change and maintain strong relationships with rank-and-file officers. Mayor Wilson plans to partner with the Seattle City Council and a community search committee to select a permanent leader. The search aims to find a chief who can ensure leadership remains in town during emergencies and balance firm leadership with cultural improvements within the department.