After Just 3 Years, Kathy Atwood to Retire as Everett Police Chief

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Everett Police Chief Kathy Atwood announced her retirement today. She was sworn in as Everett’s Police Chief on July 7th of 2011 and has been with the Everett Police Department since 1989. According to a press release issued today by the City of Everett, there won’t be a prolonged search for a new police chief as Everett Mayor Ray Stephanson plans to appoint Deputy Chief Dan Templeman as Atwood’s replacement. “I have the utmost respect for Deputy Chief Templeman and all that he has accomplished during his time in Everett,” said Stephanson. “He cares deeply about our community and I know that he will guide the department on the right path going forward.”

As for Atwood’s tenure, “Chief Atwood has been a phenomenal leader for our police force,” said Mayor Ray Stephanson. “She has collaborated with many city departments and community groups to address chronic nuisance locations in the city and to preserve our quality of life. Chief Atwood has earned the respect of the entire community, and I am very grateful for her service to Everett.”

Atwood was born and raised in Everett, WA. She attended Everett High School, earned a bachelor’s degree from PLU and a master’s degree from Seattle University. She’s held a variety of assignments in the Everett Police Department including operations, investigations and administrative services. She was named to succeed Everett Police Chief Jim Scharf back in March of 2011 formally taking the office in July of that year.

As far as her future, Atwood had this to say. “I’m extremely proud of our officers and the work they do on a daily basis to protect our community – it has been an honor to work alongside them,” said Atwood. “Now, I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family and giving back through volunteer work.”

Atwood has volunteered her time with many community organizations, including serving on the board of directors for the Dawson Place Child Advocacy Center. In March, she was awarded the Greater Everett Community Foundation Volunteer of the Year award at the Bob Drewel Human Services Fund event. Her official retirement date is set for mid-June.

Incoming Chief Templeman was hired by the Everett Police Department in 1992. He has worked in various police units, including as a patrol officer, detective with the traffic investigations unit, operations lieutenant, special investigations lieutenant, administrative captain and commander of the SMART team.

“I appreciate Chief Atwood and the mayor’s support and am honored to take over as Everett police chief,” said Templeman. “I work with some of the finest law enforcement professionals in the state, and I look forward to continuing our longstanding tradition of service to our citizens and developing strong community partnerships.”