Kent welcomes new officers Taryn Clair and Aldo Mendoza Chavez during ceremony

Kent City Council welcomed two new corrections officers during their meeting on June 17, 2025, highlighting the city's commitment to enhancing public safety and community engagement.

Taryn Preet Clair, a newly appointed corrections officer, was introduced alongside her family, including her parents and older brother. Officer Clair expressed her passion for traveling, hiking, and reading, emphasizing the importance of family support in her career journey.

The council also welcomed Officer Aldo Mendoza Chavez, who brings a diverse background to the Kent Police Department. Raised in the Pacific Northwest with roots in Mexico, Officer Chavez is a first-generation college graduate with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from the University of Washington. Before joining the force, he worked as a long-haul truck driver, gaining valuable life experience. He chose Kent due to positive impressions from the agency's community involvement and social media presence.

During the ceremony, both officers took their oaths of office, pledging to uphold the laws and regulations of the United States, Washington State, and the Kent Police Department. Their appointments reflect the city's ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement and foster community relations.

As Kent continues to grow, the addition of these officers is expected to enhance public safety and community trust, paving the way for a more engaged and responsive police force.