Kent Police Department

NO HOT DOGS & CHECK FOR BABY

This weekend is heating up. Leave your kiddos, and furry family members at home or bring them inside when you run your errands.

"5 minutes" is 5 minutes too long.

FIX IT FOR YOUR FUTURE

This upcoming Saturday June 13th is National Blame Someone Else Day. We’ve heard many versions of blaming others in our travels, including “That’s not my dope”, and “Those are my friend’s pants, I didn’t know that was in the pocket.”

We disagree with blaming others. We do support accountability and recovery. Since we are not talking about simple mistakes like forgetting to pick up milk on your way home, we want to give you some resources and programs that provide pathways to repair the bigger mistakes you’ve made. So, in opposition to the national blame day, we are encouraging everyone with a bigger mistake lurking around to come out of hiding, admit your mistake and make a positive step towards fixing the issue.

1. Think you might have an arrest warrant in Kent?

Call or email the Kent Municipal Court and ask for tips on how to resolve it. https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/municipal-court

2. Want to pay your Kent court-related fines/on-time or overdue?

https://www.kentwa.gov/pay-and-apply/pay-my-fines

3. Are you charged with DUI or Physical Control in Kent?

The DUI Court program at the Kent Municipal Court connects offenders with substance use and mental health disorders to accountability and recovery support services. It's a specialized, therapeutic court program dedicated to changing the behavior of high-risk DUI offenders through intensive treatment and supervision. Learn more:
https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/municipal-court/dui-court

Need to talk it out with someone first before you decide to leap?

Call a friend, call 988 24/7 to speak to a crisis counselor, consult a local attorney.

The future you will thank you.

WASHINGTON STATE'S BLUE ENVELOPE PROGRAM STARTS TODAY

The Blue Envelope Program is a FREE and VOLUNTARY program whose aim is to make traffic stops safer and more productive for people who are neurodivergent, or who might have communication barriers in stressful situations.

Blue Envelopes are business-size envelopes with printed instructions for drivers on one side and information for law enforcement officers on the other, (see example below).

BLUE ENVELOPES CAN BE PICKED UP AT ANY DRIVER OR VEHICLE LICENSING OFFICE IN WASHINGTON.

Program participants will not need to show proof of need, and nothing will be noted on their driving record.

Participants will store their insurance card and registration in the Blue Envelope. During a traffic stop, they will hand the officer the Blue Envelope with the documents inside along with their driver's license. The Blue Envelope will serve as a visual cue to the officer that the driver, or even a passenger, processes the world differently.

This provides officers the opportunity to adapt their communication style to better reduce misunderstandings and stress on everyone.

Many other states and jurisdictions have Blue Envelope programs. Washington State Patrol led a workgroup composed of neurodivergent individuals, advocacy groups, and DOL to refine the idea for Washington.

Communication is key during stressful and/or crisis situations. If this tool is useful for you or a loved one, learn more here:
https://dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/blue-envelope-program

CHIEF PADILLA PROMOTES NEW SERGEANTS

This month Chief Padilla had the honor and privilege of promoting Detectives Wilson and Fritsch to the rank of Police Sergeant. Both were sworn into their new duties by City of Kent Councilmember Boyce.

In these promotion ceremonies, the Chief reinforces the character traits he looks for when picking who will lead your Officers. He reminds everyone that Sergeants perform many functions including overseeing the operational directives, ensuring that Officers are performing their duties the safest way possible, training and coaching their people, and being the first supervisor on scene during critical incidents. The job of Police Sergeant requires grit, tenacity, intelligence and a good grasp of the organization and the Kent community.

Here’s a snapshot about your new sergeants and why they meet that bar.

SERGEANT TRAVIS WILSON
Sergeant Wilson has served the Kent Community for 21 years. During that time, he has been a Patrol Officer, Property Crimes Detective, and Special Assault Detective. As a detective in the investigation unit for many years, he has handled many complex property crimes and crimes against persons.

When asked, he said that his favorite part of the job was the team environment, hearing interesting and inspiring stories from his colleagues, and helping victims while learning their circumstances.

Chief Padilla stated that when he thinks of Travis, the characteristics that come to mind are intelligent, competent, humorous, supportive, reliable and a team player.

SERGEANT WILL FRITSCH
Sergeant Fritsch has over ten years of police experience serving the Kent and Seattle communities. During his tenure in Kent, he has been a Patrol Officer, Property Crimes and Crimes against Persons Detective, a member of the Valley Independent Investigation Team, and a member of the Special Assault and Special Investigations Units. He also worked as a bicycle officer for Seattle. Prior to starting his law enforcement career, Sergeant Fritsch served our country honorably in the Marine Corps.

When asked, he shared that his favorite part of the job was working as a team to solve difficult cases. Chief Padilla stated that when he thinks of Will, the traits that come to mind are competent, thoughtful, dedicated, trustworthy and a man of integrity.

Please help us congratulate our new sergeants!

KENT PD RECORDS SUPERVISOR ANDREA SCHLUTTENHOFER RETIRES AFTER LONG CAREER SERVING THE KENT COMMUNITY

Chief presents "Chief's Award for Devoted Service".

Andrea has served the Kent community for 21 years. She was a well-loved supervisor and will be sorely missed. Here’s just a bit about why she was so great. Although we celebrate her retirement, we are sad to see her go.

Andrea hired on in June of 2005, and during her tenure, she worked in all the specialist roles and assignments before being promoted to Records Supervisor. Prior to coming to Kent PD, she was in the Air Force Reserves for 10 years. She was a radar technician on the F-4, then served as a Flight Engineer on the C-141B. Even though it was a Reserve position, she was able to fly almost full time all over the world.

Andrea brought that military spirit of teamwork, followship, leadership, selflessness, and comradery to KPD from the first day she arrived. Chief Padilla met with Andrea before she left and shared the below with the department following that meeting.

“One of Andrea's favorite responsibilities was serving as a trainer for new Records Specialists. She enjoyed the coaching, mentorship, and guidance that came with helping new employees develop and succeed. Andrea also served as a union Shop Steward for AFSCME, representing the interests of her co-workers.

Andrea built a career defined by putting others before herself. There were numerous occasions when she changed shifts to cover staffing shortages or meet the needs of the Records Unit. She routinely worked last-minute overtime to support co-workers who needed time off. Andrea served as the only Records Supervisor for approximately a year and had originally planned to retire two years ago. Instead, she chose to stay because she did not want to leave the department and her team without an experienced supervisor. These selfless acts are a testament to her character, dedication, and commitment to KPD.

When I asked Andrea what she enjoyed most about her job, she shared that she loved digging for information that could help officers with their investigations. She made it a habit to listen to the radio and proactively gather information she anticipated officers would need. Andrea took pride in finding the "needle in the haystack" and believed in providing proactive support rather than simply reacting to requests. She passed this customer-service mindset on to the people she trained and supervised.

When asked for words of wisdom, Andrea encouraged people to make time to get to know those who work outside their own unit or division. She shared that building relationships with patrol officers, jail staff, detectives, and others across the department greatly enhanced her enjoyment of the job and sense of fulfillment. In fact, she credits those relationships as one of the primary reasons she remained with KPD for 21 years. She also encouraged officers to take the time to get to know the people who work in Records and to better understand the critical role they play in our success.

Andrea is especially proud of the people she trained who have gone on to become highly competent and successful Records Specialists, including two who eventually became Records Supervisors themselves. She is also proud of being named Support Services Employee of the Year and, as she put it, "making it 21 years."

Andrea shared that what she will miss most are the people, the friendships she has built over the years, and the camaraderie that comes from being part of a team.

Andrea's impact on KPD has been significant. She leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, competence, dedication, and service within our Records Unit. Her influence will continue to be felt through the many employees she trained, mentored, and supported throughout her career.

I cannot thank Andrea enough for her commitment to the Kent Police Department, her fellow employees, and the Kent community. We are better because of her service.”-Chief Padilla

Please join us in congratulating Andrea on her well-deserved retirement and wishing her the very best in this next chapter of life.

FIREFIGHTERS NEED HEROES TOO

In case you missed it, one morning last week an occupied building in downtown Kent had a pile of material on fire adjacent to it's corner. Kent Patrol Officers and Puget Sound Fire were both dispatched, and Kent Patrol Officer Stotler was one of the first the first to arrive. He has prior firefighter experience, which came in handy.

He contacted dispatch and let them know the fire was more dangerous than first reported, and advised them to upgrade the fire response, Fire arrived shortly after and Officer Stotler helped to "take a hydrant" which is fire lingo for connecting a large hose to a fire hydrant for the truck.

Kent Patrol Officers immediately entered and began knocking on doors to evacuate people. Everyone was fine and the fire was extinguished.

Officer Stotler received an atta boy from Puget Sound Fire Engineer Ramos, thanking him for the assistance. During calls when seconds matter, working together as a team, regardless of the uniform you wear, is critical.

Great job Officer Stotler and to his crew who jumped in without hesitation to go through the halls evacuating residents. And of course major kudos to the Puget Sound Fire crew that expertly extinguished the fire and ensured the residents and officers were safe.

DECEASED MALE FOUND - KENT DETECTIVES INVESTIGATING

Kent, WA-June 9, 2026

On June 8, 2026, just after 5:30 p.m., Kent Police responded to a 911 call from a witness who had discovered a body in the bushes near the intersection of 94th Ave S and Canyon Drive. Officers observed the remains of an adult male. Based on the level of decomposition, it appears the death occurred a significant time prior to being discovered.

Kent Police Detectives responded to conduct the investigation. The deceased male has not been identified. While there were no obvious signs that indicated this was a homicide, detectives are not ruling that out at this point.

Medical Examiners also responded and will examine the remains to determine the cause of death and confirm the identity of the deceased.

Kent Police are seeking the public’s assistance with this investigation. If anyone who has information regarding this incident, please call the KPD Tip Line at (253) 856-5808.

Media Contact
Assistant Chief Jarod Kasner
[email protected]

CITY OF KENT POLICE CHIEF RAFAEL PADILLA NAMED PRESIDENT OF WASPC

Chief’s leadership in accountability, community engagement, and equitable public safety practices has helped shape policing across Washington State.

We are proud to announce that Kent Police Chief Rafael Padilla has been named the President of Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs ( WASPC).

Chief Padilla was named during the association’s annual Spring Conference after previously serving on the WASPC Executive Board as Vice President from 2024–2025 and President-Elect from 2025–2026. In his new role, he will help lead a statewide organization representing more than 900 law enforcement executives, including all 39 elected county sheriffs, more than 240 police chiefs, the Washington State Patrol, the Washington State Department of Corrections, tribal law enforcement agencies, and federal law enforcement partners.

“I am humbled by the trust of my peers across the state who have chosen me for this responsibility,” said Chief Padilla. “At a time when public safety faces complex challenges, it is imperative that law enforcement leaders remain engaged and work collaboratively to find solutions for the communities we serve. Together we will continue to elevate public safety in Washington. I look forward to the important work ahead.”

Mayor Dana Ralph said Chief Padilla’s role as president reflects both his leadership within Kent and his influence on public safety policy across Washington State.

“Rafael’s appointment reflects what we in Kent have known for years, he is an exceptional leader who cares deeply about both public safety and the people he serves,” said Mayor Dana Ralph. “Whether he is implementing innovative programs, strengthening community partnerships, advancing trust with Kent’s diverse communities, advocating for resources, or supporting his officers, Chief Padilla leads with integrity and purpose. I am incredibly proud to see his leadership recognized at the state level and know he will represent both Kent and Washington’s law enforcement community exceptionally well.”

Chief Padilla has dedicated more than three decades to public safety and community service. He began his law enforcement career with the Honolulu Police Department in 1992 before joining the Kent Police Department in 1997. Since then, he has served in nearly every area of policing, including patrol, investigations, SWAT, gang enforcement, training, and community policing initiatives before being appointed Chief of Police in 2018.

Known for his servant leadership philosophy, Chief Padilla believes it is both his duty and honor to serve and protect the Kent community. Throughout his career, he has focused on building strong partnerships between law enforcement and the people they serve while advancing innovative policing strategies that strengthen public safety, accountability, and community trust.

During his tenure as Chief, Kent has become recognized statewide for innovation, accountability, community engagement, and public safety leadership. Those accomplishments span public safety policy, officer training, community engagement, technology, accountability, organizational excellence, and equity-focused policing initiatives.

Following passage of the Law Enforcement Training and Community Safety Act (LETCSA), the Kent Police Department worked with the Tukwila Police Department and community stakeholders to establish one of Washington’s first independent officer-involved shooting investigation programs. Built on the principles of independence, transparency, accountability, and public trust, the program became an early model for implementation of the state’s new requirements and helped shape investigative frameworks later adopted throughout Washington.

Chief Padilla has also emerged as a statewide leader on the responsible use of public safety technology. He has been a leading voice on the use of Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology, advocating for policies that balance effective crime prevention and victim support with strong privacy protections and civil liberties safeguards. Under his leadership, the Kent Police Department partnered with Washington State University to develop innovative data-driven tools that strengthened transparency, accountability, and public trust in policing.

His commitment to community-centered policing has led to several groundbreaking initiatives. Chief Padilla helped establish the Community Immersion Law Enforcement Program (CILEP), a first-of-its-kind initiative that places new police recruits alongside nonprofit organizations and community leaders for 320 hours of service before attending the police academy. The program has graduated more than 60 recruits since 2021, and an independent evaluation by the University of Washington Tacoma found it increased cultural competency, strengthened understanding of community resources, improved recruits’ ability to build meaningful relationships with residents from diverse backgrounds, and enhanced their understanding of refugee, immigrant, and historically underserved communities.

Recognizing the importance of serving one of the most diverse communities in Washington state, Chief Padilla has also championed efforts to ensure the Kent Police Department reflects and effectively serves the residents of Kent. Under his leadership, the department created a dedicated Equity Program Officer position to advance community engagement, cultural competency, inclusive recruitment, policy review, and organizational development initiatives. These efforts helped strengthen trust, expand partnerships with historically underserved communities, and positioned Kent as a statewide leader in community-focused and culturally responsive policing.

Chief Padilla’s leadership has extended beyond departmental operations into public policy and statewide public safety funding. He played a key role in helping the City of Kent become the first city in the state approved by the State Criminal Justice Training Commission to implement the public safety sales tax authorized under ESHB 2015. Under his leadership, Kent also became the first jurisdiction in the state to receive ESHB 2015 grant funding to support officer hiring, training, and public safety investments. By successfully meeting the program’s rigorous accountability and compliance requirements, Kent established a model implementation framework that has helped guide jurisdictions across Washington seeking to access these critical public safety resources.

Chief Padilla has also demonstrated exceptional leadership in workforce development. At a time when law enforcement agencies across Washington and the nation faced unprecedented recruiting and retention challenges, he guided the Kent Police Department to full staffing through innovative recruitment strategies, community partnerships, and a strong focus on organizational culture. This achievement is particularly notable given that Kent serves approximately 140,000 residents with fewer commissioned officers per capita than the national average, requiring the department to maximize efficiency while maintaining high levels of service.

Chief Padilla's naming as President of WASPC reflects a career dedicated to innovation, accountability, collaboration, equity, and service. His leadership has helped shape public safety policy throughout Washington while advancing Kent’s reputation as a leader in community-centered policing, officer development, public safety technology, organizational excellence, and meaningful engagement with diverse communities.



Learn more about WASPC: https://www.waspc.org

Pawfest is here! How many cute puppies can you stand to see? Come to Showare and test your tolerance. Pawfest is open until 1pm. It would be a doggone shame to miss it!

🐾 PawFest is THIS WEEKEND! 🐾

Join us and Regional Animal Services of King County for a fun-filled morning celebrating at PawFest!

We’ll have adoptable pets looking for their forever homes, on-site pet licensing, a crowd-favorite pet costume contest, live demos from local trainers, food trucks, and more.
📅 Saturday, June 6
📍 accesso ShoWare Center
⌚ 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Bring your family, bring your pets, and come spend the morning with us.