New Police Chief Appointed

July 2, 2024 - Mercer Island City Manager Jessi Bon has appointed Chris Sutter as the community’s next Police Chief, following the retirement of Chief Ed Holmes in June. Sutter was selected from a national search and brings more than three decades of experience spanning all levels of law enforcement, including 24 years in command and chief-level roles leading law enforcement agencies in Washington state. He will begin as Mercer Island’s Police Chief on July 8, 2024. 

Sutter previously served as a chief of police, assistant chief, division commander, administration commander, and detective. His management and field experience includes patrol, investigations, special operations, administration, professional standards, finance and logistics, and regional task forces.  

City Manager Bon selected Sutter based on his long tenure in police leadership, community-focused approach, and deep understanding of specific police initiatives relevant to the community, such as marine patrol.  

“Mercer Island is home to an excellent police department that’s actively engaged in the safety and well-being of our community,” City Manager Bon, said. “Chris Sutter brings a wealth of experience and great perspective – I’m confident he will lead the continued good work of our Police Department and I look forward to welcoming him in the role.” 

Sutter’s vision for the Mercer Island Police Department encompasses continuing and growing active engagement with the community, maintaining excellent policing standards, and supporting officer training and wellbeing. His leadership philosophy cites collaborative problem solving, leading by example, and building trust and relationships.  

“I’m honored to serve as the Island’s next Police Chief and look forward to working with our officers, City staff, and you, the community,” Sutter said. “I take seriously the trust City Manager Bon and City leadership have placed in me to lead and guide our police department. Serving as an officer is much more than a job, it’s a calling. As your new Police Chief, I will work hard to maintain your continued trust in the department and support our officers and our community every day.” 

Sutter holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from California State University-Bakersfield. He is also a graduate of the Public Safety Leadership Development Program Command College from the Mark O. Hatfield School of Government at Portland State University, a graduate of the Northwest Law Enforcement Executive Command College, a graduate of the School of Police Staff and Command at Northwestern University Center for Public Safety, a graduate from the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar, and a graduate from the Senior Management Institute for Police at the Police Executive Research Forum. 

Prior to Sutter’s first day on July 8, Commander Jeff Magnan is serving as Interim Chief providing leadership to the department. 

Mercer Island community members will have an opportunity to meet with Sutter and welcome him to the Island at an upcoming Coffee with a Cop event. More information will be announced soon. 

You can learn more about the Mercer Island Police Department at www.mercerisland.gov/police.