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Carlos Keelis sworn in as Tumwater police chief; union and council express support
Summary
Carlos Keelis was sworn in June 16 as Tumwater’s police chief. The council highlighted his 24-plus years in law enforcement and unanimous confirmation; Keelis pledged to lead with community focus and published a chief’s message outlining 11 priorities.
Carlos Keelis was formally sworn in as Tumwater police chief at the June 16 council meeting in a brief ceremony that included family members, union leaders and multiple expressions of council support.
Mayor Leetta Dhoff administered the oath. The mayor and council recounted Keelis’s more than 24 years of law enforcement experience, including 15 years of SWAT service; he was promoted to lieutenant in 2008, advanced to deputy chief on Oct. 1, 2025, served as acting chief beginning Jan. 3, 2026, and was confirmed by the council on June 2, 2026.
Keelis thanked the council, the police guild and family members who pinned his badge. “To everyone who showed up to support me, I am deeply appreciative and moved,” he said. He said a new chief’s message outlining 11 departmental priorities is now posted on the Tumwater Police Department website and asked residents to follow the department for updates.
Jacob, identified as the police guild president, told the council the union had unanimously endorsed Keelis and praised the city for including the union in the selection process. Other council members offered congratulations and emphasized expectations that the department’s work be rooted in trust, transparency and community engagement.
The ceremony closed with family photos and applause. Council and staff indicated continued partnership with the department as Keelis assumes full duties.
