Forest Grove is handing the keys to its police department to Washington County Sheriff’s Office commander David Marzilli, who has been tapped as the city’s next police chief. He is set to start on April 8 and will be sworn in at the April 13 city council meeting, as Chief Henry Reimann heads into retirement after six years at the helm.
According to an announcement from the Forest Grove Police Department, Marzilli emerged from a nationwide search that involved a detailed interview process. The department notes that he brings more than 28 years of law enforcement experience and has served with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office since 1998. The post also directs residents to a city webpage for those who want to dig into the finer points of the transition.
Background and experience
Marzilli has held senior posts within Washington County, including command-level responsibility in the jail division along with other leadership assignments. His role is reflected on the agency’s current leadership roster, as shown by the Washington County Sheriff's Office, ahead of his move to Forest Grove.
Local context
His appointment arrives at a moment when Forest Grove is still grappling with public concerns about policing and accountability. Coverage in The Washington Post highlighted an off-duty officer incident that drew regional scrutiny and added fuel to community conversations about department culture and oversight.
Against that backdrop, local residents and elected officials are signaling that they will be watching closely to see how the new chief approaches transparency, internal discipline and day-to-day community engagement. Marzilli will be stepping into a job where the badge comes with a side of heightened expectations.
What's next
Per the department’s announcement, Marzilli is scheduled to assume day-to-day responsibilities on April 8, then take his formal oath of office at the April 13 city council meeting. The Forest Grove Police Department’s post links to the city’s information page for anyone looking for more details on how the handoff from Reimann to Marzilli will play out.
