Everett swears in five new police recruits as department nears highest patrol staffing in a decade

The Everett City Council on Aug. 6 approved and swore in five new officers for the Everett Police Department, a step the mayor said helps restore patrol staffing to its highest level in more than a decade.

Mayor Franklin introduced the recruits and asked Acting Captain Tim Morgan to administer the oath. The five officers accepted by motion and sworn in were Leah Kato, Justin Coker, Rudy Gilgalon, Kevin Lillis and Christian Miles. The council approved the appointments by roll call; Vice President Zarl ingo, Council member Bader, Council member Ryan, Council member Voguely, Council member Tuohy and Council President Schwab each voted "yes."

Mayor Franklin noted that the department recently reported the highest number of patrol officers in over a decade and said the increased staffing is "making measurable difference in service delivery, officer safety, and our community." He introduced Acting Captain Tim Morgan as a 27-year department member who recently stepped into a leadership role overseeing patrol operations and previously led the Northwest Regional Law Enforcement Academy.

Acting Captain Tim Morgan said four of the five new officers graduated from the first class of the Northwest Regional Basic Law Enforcement Academy in Arlington on July 29. The officers introduced themselves and family members in the chamber before taking the oath of office.

No opposition to the appointments was recorded. The council did not discuss specific budgetary details for the hires during the swearing-in; Mayor Franklin connected the appointments to broader staffing goals the chief had previously briefed the council on.