After Mayor Mike Rosen (right) reads the May 2024 Police Week Proclamation, Edmonds Police Chief Michelle Bennett thanks the City Council and community for supporting the Edmonds Police Department. (File photo: Nick Ng)
The City of Edmonds announced Friday that Edmonds Police Chief Michelle Bennett has announced that she plans to retire in early 2025.
Bennett has served as the city’s police chief since August 2021. He previously worked for the King County Sheriff’s Office from 1990 to 2021, and served as police chief for the City of Maple Valley from 2004 to 2014 and the City of Sammamish from 2016 to 2019. .
Bennett earned a bachelor’s degree in law and justice, a master of science degree in psychology/organizational development and behavior, and a doctorate in education with an emphasis in curriculum and instruction. She is a graduate of Northwestern University Police Staff College and the National FBI Academy. Additionally, she has taught criminal justice classes locally since 1998 at Washington State University, the Police Officers Academy, and Northwestern University’s Command Department.
“I understand Chief Bennett’s decision to retire, but I am personally sad to see her leave our city,” Mayor Mike Rosen said. “For the past four years, Chief Bennett has led the Edmonds Police Department through some of its most difficult times with an unwavering dedication to her staff and the city. She has served our community with expertise and integrity. We are deeply grateful to Chief Bennett for her outstanding leadership and commitment to our community as she continues to support the City through this budget process and leadership transition, ensuring a smooth path forward for EPD. His dedication will be greatly missed.”
