SEQUIM — Sheri Crain, who has been with the Sequim Police Department since 1991, will be the city’s newest police chief, the city announced Monday.
Crain joined the department 25 years ago, rose through the ranks and served directly under former Chief Bill Dickinson, who recently retired. His last day on the job was Thursday, though his retirement is official Thursday, Dec. 15.
Crain, who is currently serving as acting chief, will officially start her new position Dec. 16.
“We are fortunate to be able to promote someone with Sheri’s experience, skill level, connection and commitment to our community into this role,” said City Manager Charlie Bush, who added the city chose to hire internally because of her experience with the department.
Crain will earn $106,000 annually, he said.
In 2010, both Crain and Dickinson applied to be chief. Officials decided at the time Dickinson would become chief and act as a mentor for Crain, who would eventually take over when he retired, Bush said.
“He had her deal with every duty involved with being chief,” he said. “She’s had a full orientation to the role.”
Accreditation of the department by the Washington Association of Sheriffs & Police Chiefs was announced Nov. 16. Sequim is now one of 63 state-accredited police departments of more than 300 law enforcement agencies in Washington.
Bush said Crain played a significant role in earning that accreditation.
That transition plan wasn’t set in stone, he said. At any time, he could have changed the plan.
But it was clear Crain was fit for the job, he said, so he decided to hire internally.
“We could have changed plans, but everyone felt comfortable with Sheri, as do I,” he said. “In the end it was an easy choice.”
Bush expects a seamless transition and expected no disruption in service.
“Our team in the police department is very comfortable with her,” he said. “We’re just delighted to have Sheri continue to serve the community in this role.
“The community will continue to see high-level police services from Sequim.”
Crain, who was the first woman officer hired in Sequim, said she is excited to continue serving the city of Sequim.
Once Dickinson took over in 2010, Crain said she had increasing exposure to responsibilities until he retired.
Those six years under Dickinson showed her she’s got the experience necessary to take on the job, she said.
“It’s nice to feel like you’re plenty qualified,” she said. “I’m thankful for the fact I’ve been exposed to all the tools I need to handle the job.”
In 1999, she was promoted to sergeant and in 2008 to police lieutenant.
Crain previously served as interim police chief from July to September in 2010.
In 2013, she completed the 10-week FBI Academy and was appointed deputy chief.
“The city of Sequim has been good to me,” she said. “We have a great staff and it will be a lot of fun continuing to work with them.”
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Reporter Jesse Major can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 56250, or at jmajor@peninsuladailynews.com.
