Tacoma's New Top Cop: Patti Jackson on Tackling Crime and Building Trust

On Tuesday, Tacoma’s interim Police Chief Patti Jackson had her first one-on-one interview with KING 5 as she took a seat alongside the network. since being sworn in .

Jackson took office in February. after the resignation from ex-Chief Avery Moore.

I’m taking this step because now is the perfect moment to rise to leadership," stated Jackson. "The call indicated that leadership is essential, and I possess the necessary skills to contribute.

Jackson is new to the Tacoma Police Department but has over three decades of experience from his time at the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office.

Last year, she campaigned for the position of sheriff but disoriented during the November election .

"I believe everything unfolded as it was meant to,"Jackson stated, mentioning that being chosen for her present position is quite an honor.

She said although there are differences working for the two agencies with structure and working with the city, that it is also similar.

“As far as getting down in the meat and potatoes of what a law enforcement agency is for, to actually, you know, go out and serve the public and safeguard the communities, it is identical,” said Jackson.

She pointed out that the types of crimes handled by the two agencies are also quite alike.

KING 5 asked Jackson how she is working to rebuild trust with the community, especially following the death of Manny Ellis in 2020 while he was being detained by Tacoma police.

She said she has spent most of her time so far meeting with community members.

Across the board, people aren’t asking us to solve everything for them. Instead, they’re inquiring about how we can collaborate together to achieve our goals," stated Jackson. "This indicates that we're heading in the right direction and working towards regaining their trust.

She said she is working to truly listen to people within the department about what she can do to help them succeed.

“I think that trying to come in and change everything is, you know, a bad move, right?” said Jackson. “I think that history has proven that. But I do think there are things that people want changed.”

She mentioned that concentrating on the requirements of the department could boost morale and aid in attracting new talent.

"I want people to look at our agency and think, 'This is the place I wish to join,'" stated Jackson.

So far this year, the number of murders has risen, with 11 homicide cases recorded up until now in 2025. By comparison, at this point last year, there had been only seven homicides.

She mentioned that the police department is directing their efforts towards areas experiencing high levels of violence. One major issue they're tackling, as she points out, is what she refers to as "flagrant disregard for the law."

“How can we improve our efforts to become more noticeable, stand out, and attempt to intervene when individuals are engaging in criminal activities?" asked Jackson. "We want to ensure that this isn’t a place where such acts can occur without consequence; if they choose to proceed, we will take action and make arrests."

She aims to remain in the top role to continue steering the department and supporting Tacoma.

“What I ask the community to look for is, what am I doing to provide you with officers who are well? Because that's what we need to take care of, right? And who are coming out here every single day, every single call, to serve this community as they deserve to be served,” said Jackson.

More than one-third of homicide victims in Tacoma this year have been teenagers. Jackson said the department has an upcoming meeting with Tacoma Public Schools to discuss enhancing programs to help keep kids engaged in safe and healthy activities.

KING 5 asked Interim Chief Jackson about the recent firing of the department’s deputy chief, following the acquisition of documents by KING 5 that outlined the reasons for his dismissal .

According to state records, Jackson fired Paul Junger in March, after an outside investigation found evidence of "gender discrimination" and the "creation of a hostile work environment."

On Tuesday, Jackson refused to make any comments regarding his dismissal.

Jackson informed KING 5 that the former assistant chief Frank Krause has been elevated to the role of deputy chief.

"I feel confident that our agency houses considerable talent. Therefore, we've made certain adjustments within the leadership structure, placing individuals where their skills can best serve the overall operation," stated Jackson in response to inquiries regarding recent turmoil concerning the department’s leadership.

The department's overall budget amounts to $258 million and comprises a total of 395 roles, encompassing both commissioned and non-commissioned personnel.

You can view the complete 20-minute interview with Jackson here .