Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson’s administration has formally confirmed that Wilson requested the resignation of former Police Chief Shon Barnes, citing the need for a leadership team aligned with her vision for the Seattle Police Department. The move follows the high-profile Bite of Seattle shooting, which left three dead and drew criticism over delayed public communication.
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The forced resignation has intensified scrutiny of Wilson’s handling of public safety and city leadership, with council members and residents questioning the necessity and transparency of Barnes’ ouster.
The mayor’s office, in a letter sent by General Counsel Caedmon Cahill to the City Council and City Clerk, stated that Wilson acted "after careful consideration" and wanted a cabinet "aligned with her administration's values, policy goals, and vision for the Seattle Police Department." The letter marks the first time Wilson’s rationale for Barnes’ departure has been formally recorded with the council.
Councilmember Bob Kettle, who received the explanation, said he still disagreed with the decision and the process, but acknowledged the mayor’s authority under the City Charter. "It is no surprise that I disagree with this decision and how the issue was handled, but I understand her ability to do so based on the Seattle City Charter to which we both swore an oath to uphold," Kettle wrote.
"While any violence is too much violence, it is important to understand that SPD data show shootings and homicides at their lowest in a decade. And yet, we have far too much crime and public disorder and people have a right to be frustrated. I, like everyone in Seattle, want to see that progress happen faster and steadier."
— Katie Wilson, Seattle Mayor
Wilson’s office emphasized that the chief resigned and that the city is working with an advisory group to select a permanent replacement. Interim Chief Sayles is currently overseeing police operations. "The requirement to file reasons for dismissal does not apply to a resignation. Mayor Wilson is moving forward with the community and an advisory group to select a permanent police chief," the mayor’s office said.
Fallout From Bite of Seattle Shooting
The Bite of Seattle shooting, which resulted in three deaths, triggered widespread criticism after a five-hour delay in public updates. Wilson cited communication failures between the police department and her office as a key reason for seeking Barnes’ resignation, calling the delay "unacceptable" at a press conference, according to The Center Square.
Wilson’s administration has since highlighted steps to improve public safety, including doubling crisis care responder hours and processing 3,500 police officer applications. The mayor’s office also announced plans to roll out a comprehensive gun violence reduction strategy and provide updates on shelter acceleration work.
Political Backlash and Recall Effort
The decision to remove Barnes has deepened divisions between Wilson and several city council members, who have noted that crime rates were trending downward under Barnes’ leadership. Critics have also pointed to a severance package exceeding $700,000 and a non-disclosure agreement as evidence of a lack of transparency.
Public frustration has led to a formal recall petition against Wilson, with petitioners citing her administration’s handling of public safety and police leadership. Although the recall filing was temporarily withdrawn to gather more documentation, recent polls show declining approval ratings for Wilson and a majority of respondents indicating she should resign or be removed from office.
Seattle’s business community has also voiced concerns about Wilson’s approach to public safety. Kettle called for collaboration between the mayor’s office and the city council in selecting the next police chief, emphasizing the need to follow the City Charter’s procedures for confirmation.
Next Steps in Police Leadership
Wilson’s office stated that the search for a permanent police chief will involve community input and an advisory group. In the interim, Chief Sayles will oversee department operations to ensure continuity and morale. The mayor’s office said it would provide further updates on public safety initiatives and the search process in the coming weeks.
