While crime rates across Washington state have decreased, the city of Des Moines is experiencing a rise in criminal activity, according to the Annual Crime in Washington Report from the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs.
The report also underscores that the number of commissioned law enforcement officers has not kept pace with Washington’s growing population. Washington ranks the lowest among all states and the District of Columbia with just 1.35 officers per thousand residents, marking the lowest per capita rate ever recorded.
Des Moines Crime “On the Rise”
In Des Moines, the overall crime rate is on the rise, particularly in crimes against individuals, property offenses, and incidents involving juveniles.
City 24% Below State Average of Police Staffing
From a staffing standpoint, Des Moines falls 24% below the state average with only 1.05 officers per thousand residents. To align with the state average, the city would need to recruit an additional 12 police officers.
Interim Police Chief Mark Couey expressed concern over these statistics.
“Our current officer numbers are very low, especially given our relatively high crime rates,” he said.
Chief Couey also commended the dedication of the department’s personnel, stating:
“I’m immensely proud of our team who tirelessly serve our community day in and day out. They embody our agency’s mission to combat crime with trust and care.”
New Police Chief Boe Starts Aug. 15
As we previously reported, new Des Moines Police Chief Ted Boe will start on Aug. 15, 2024.
Boe served as Burien’s Chief of Police since 2018, and resigned from that position on June 11, 2024.
Prior to Burien, Boe served 18 years in the King County Sheriff’s Office, as Sergeant, Precinct Operations Captain, and Major Investigations Section Captain in Seattle, Burien, and SeaTac.
Following the recent departure of Chief Tim Gately, City administration conducted a thorough review of potential options to fill the vacant position, through either interim assignments or a permanent replacement. Mark Couey has been serving as Interim Chief since May.
Des Moines Police Guild President Justin Cripe provided the following statement about Boe:
“The Des Moines Police Guild supports Interim City Manager Tim George’s decision to select Chief Boe as our next Police Chief. Chief Boe and his exceptional leadership skills, extensive experience, and forward-thinking vision make him the ideal candidate for this critical role. We are confident that his leadership will contribute to the continued success and growth of the Police Department, ensuring that it effectively meets the evolving needs of our community and its citizens. His dedication and commitment to public service will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the City as a whole. We would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to Interim City Manager Tim George, Mayor Traci Buxton, and the City Administrative staff for their diligent efforts to fill this vacancy. Also, we would like to acknowledge Acting Chief Mark Couey for his exceptional leadership during this transitional period.”
Acting Chief Couey will continue to lead the department until Chief Boe begins.
