South Sound News

Olympia police chief announces retirement

OLYMPIA, Wash. — Ronnie Roberts, the chief of the Olympia Police Department, announced his retirement Wednesday morning after serving as an officer for over 33 years, according to a press release.

Roberts served as police chief in Olympia for the past nine years.

"It is with mixed emotions that I step away from this noble profession. I am proud to have served in policing for over 33 years and especially proud to have served the Olympia community this past nine years," Roberts said in a statement.

Roberts began his career as an officer in Eugene, Oregon in 1986. He served as police chief in Redmond, Oregon before coming to Olympia in 2011.

"We have made considerable progress in building strong community relationships and partnerships, and I believe the Olympia Police Department is well positioned to continue to lead law enforcement in 21st Century policing," Roberts said.

The city is hosting a reception in his honor at Olympia City Hall on Dec. 3 at 1:30 p.m.

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