Chelan County Sheriff’s Office Has New Chief of Patrol

The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office has a new Chief of Patrol effective April 1, 2016. Sgt. Rick Johnson from the Wenatchee Police Department has been selected to be the new Chief of Patrol. This open position was created by John Wisemore vacating his previous position of Undersheriff, going back as a Patrol Corporal. Jason Mathews was promoted to Undersheriff, March 1st, leaving the Chief of Patrol position vacant.

Rick Johnson graduated from Liberty High School in Renton, WA in 1996. He went on to obtain his B.A. Degree from Central Washington University in 2000.

Johnson started his career in Law Enforcement with the Toppenish Police Department in 2001 prior to coming to the Wenatchee Police Department in 2003 where he has worked in the Pro Act Division since 2008. Johnson was promoted to Sergeant in 2013 and has been the Wenatchee Police Guild President since 2009.

Johnson is married and has four children. In talking with Wenatchee Police Department personnel, from the administration to the line staff, they all had something similar to say, "You guys are getting a good one." I'm certain they are sad to see him leave but support his decision and have even encouraged his decision for his personal career development. I'm confident that Johnson's knowledge from patrol to gangs along with his search warrant writing skills and experience will prove to be a great asset.

Johnson's calm demeanor and ability to work in collaboration with others is definitely one of his positive attributes in which I'm confident will prove to be another asset as he joins our team at the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office. In many conversations with Johnson leading up to this decision it is clear to me that he will be dedicated to the Sheriff’s Office and the citizens we serve in Chelan County.

Please join me in congratulating and welcoming Rick as he joins our team at the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Brian Burnett