New Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes Takes Charge Amid Department's Leadership Shuffle and Controversy

Seattle's police force is poised to welcome a new leader this week as Shon Barnes steps into the role of police chief; Interim Chief Sue Rahr will be departing her current position tomorrow, preparing to clear her office for the incoming chief, she shared in an internal memo to the staff. Barnes, who is relocating to Seattle, is slated for a welcome reception at City Hall on Friday, details of which the Police Department has yet to divulge, as reported by The Seattle Times.

Rahr, who has served in an interim capacity for approximately seven months, aiding in the transitional phase of the department, has indicated that while she will be vacating her office space, her involvement with the department will continue briefly as she intends to collaborate with Chief Barnes and the Mayor's Office on wrapping up ongoing projects until mid-February; Rahr confirmed she will retain email access during this time in a statement obtained by KOMO News.

The leadership transition occurs amid a tumultuous period for the Seattle Police Department, as the department's previous acting chief Adrian Diaz faces serious allegations of misconduct, including racial and gender discrimination; Diaz, who also recently disclosed his sexual orientation, has filed a $10 million claim against the city alleging discrimination and harassment, as specified in the details provided by KING 5 News.