LEADERSHIP

Tulalip Police Department Chief Shawn Ledford.

CHIEF SHAWN LEDFORD
Chief of Police

Shawn Ledford, a Tulalip Tribal member, brings over 35 years of law enforcement experience to his role as Chief of Police. His career began in 1989 at the Federal Way Precinct, where he served as a patrol deputy. During his tenure, he excelled as a field training officer, master police officer, and negotiator on the Hostage Negotiations Team. His investigative skills led him to the Special Assault Unit and Major Crimes division.

In 1999, Shawn’s dedication earned him a promotion to sergeant at the Maple Valley Precinct. He then took on the role of Chief of Police for the City of Newcastle, where he served for five years. In 2006, he was promoted to captain and worked at the Southwest Precinct (Burien) before transferring to the North Precinct (Kenmore) as the operations captain. His leadership extended to contracting assignments and the Criminal Investigations Division.

Shawn’s commitment to community policing is unwavering. He emphasizes fair and objective treatment of all individuals, recognizing that many law enforcement challenges intersect with behavioral health issues, often exacerbated by substance abuse. In 2015, he completed training in the Department of Justice’s smart policing RADAR program, focusing on response awareness, de-escalation, and referral. This initiative aims to reduce use-of-force incidents and pairs mental health professionals with officers to connect those needing behavioral health services.

Chief Ledford has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in sociology and criminology from Western Washington University.


Deputy Chief Chris Gobin of the Tulalip Police Department

CHRIS GOBIN
Deputy Chief of Police

Deputy Chief Christopher Gobin brings 17 years of dedicated service to the Tulalip Police Department. His journey began with a negative encounter with a state game warden, which fueled his commitment to ensuring tribal members receive respectful and caring treatment. Honesty, fairness, and a deep connection to the Tulalip tribal community guide his service.

Christopher's hard work and dedication, coupled with his unique understanding of the tribe's requirements, led him to the role of Deputy Chief. His service in the Army and subsequent return to become a police officer for the tribe demonstrate his commitment.

Under Christopher's leadership, a strengthened drug task force is making a significant impact, removing dangerous substances from the streets. Each pill seized represents a life saved, a testament to the team's dedication and the positive impact on the community.

Christopher's belief in the power of community ties to foster commitment and create the next generation of leaders is inspiring. He envisions Tulalip as a shining model for other cities, where excellence defines police work and the future is filled with hope.


Angela Davis Director-Support Services Bureau of the Tulalip Police Department

Angela Davis
Director-Support Services Bureau

Angela Davis, a citizen of the Tulalip Tribes, holds the first non-commissioned executive position in the history of the Tulalip Tribal Police Department. As the Director-Support Services Bureau under the authority of the Chief of Police, she oversees police administrative operations, including professional standards, technology, evidence, communications, and administrative and community support services. Angela's leadership style is structured, calm, and upbeat, influencing effective organizational change.

Before her current role, Angela had various roles in the human resource employment field. As the previous Executive Director of Central Employment, she hired over one thousand employees annually for a top county employer. Angela also served twelve years in the Air Force, reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant and receiving several awards for her outstanding performance. She is a graduate of the Airman Leadership School and Non-Commissioned Officer Academy.

Angela obtained a Master of Public Administration with an emphasis in Government and Policy in 2022, finishing in the top ten percent of her class. She is a member of the Alpha Chi College Honor Society. She also holds a bachelor's degree in business administration with honors and human resources. She is pursuing her Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Christian Ministry from Grand Canyon University.