Chief of Police

Chris Sutter

Chris Sutter was appointed as the Chief of Police for the City of Mercer Island Police Department on July 8, 2024. Chris previously served as Chief of Police for the Tulalip Tribes of Washington for nearly six years, and previously served as the Assistant Chief of Police for the City of Vancouver, Washington, where he served for over 26 years. Chris began his law enforcement career in 1986 serving as a Kern County Deputy Sheriff and later as a City of Bakersfield Police Officer.

Chris has extensive command experience leading complex law enforcement operations and programs, including patrol, investigations, special operations, administration, professional standards, finance and logistics, and regional partnerships and task forces. Chris is a collaborative leader who works with all community partners to address the community's safety and livability, and delivery of exceptional police services. Chris works to create a positive work environment; he effectively leads with a calming presence; promoting a culture of communication, respect, inclusion, professional development, recognition, and appreciation.

A respected expert in his field, Chris testified before the US House of Representatives Sub-Committee on Indian and Insular Affairs and the US Senate Committee on Indian Affairs regarding Tribal public safety and the Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act. Bringing a wealth of knowledge, unique perspective and insight, he also testified before the Washington State Legislature. In addition, he presented at the BC Canada First Nations - Policing as an Essential Service Forum and the National Tribal Opioid Summit.

Chris 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.

Chris is a member of the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPC), the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), and the King County Police Chiefs and Sheriff’s Association.

Chris brings his energy, enthusiasm, and years of leadership experience as he embraces this new chapter in his career serving and protecting the City of Mercer Island.

“I am very pleased and honored to lead the outstanding team of professionals at the Mercer Island Police Department. Protecting and enhancing the safety and livability of the Mercer Island Community is our highest priority.” - Chief Chris Sutter

Chris and Sue Sutter have four adult children. Chris loves spending time with his family and enjoys the great outdoors - fishing, boating, hiking, and going on nature walks with his loyal yellow labrador, Rogan

E-mail address: chris.sutter@mercerisland.gov