Lacey Police Department Deputy Chief Robert Hollis joins state advisory committee

Lacey Police Department Deputy Chief Robert Hollis has been named to a Washington state advisory committee overseeing the distribution of federal criminal justice grants. 

The City of Lacey announced the appointment on Thursday, Feb. 26, confirming his selection to the Justice Assistance Grant Advisory Committee, which helps guide the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program. 

Hollis was invited to serve based on his interest in the role and his years of work in criminal justice, the city said in announcing the appointment. 

Hollis began his law enforcement career with the Des Moines Police Department in 2001. He later moved to the Kent Police Department in 2006, where he rose through the ranks from police officer to commander.  He joined the Lacey Police Department in 2021.

Over the course of his career, Hollis has served as a race and equity commander and patrol commander, with responsibility over traffic, K-9 and school resource officers. 

He has also managed emergency management and information technology projects, worked as a public information officer and SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) officer, and handled recruiting, hiring and collision investigation. 

"His experience overseeing diverse teams and complex projects, along with his background in public administration and sociology, positions him well to contribute meaningful insight at the state level," the city said. 

Hollis holds an executive master's degree in public administration and a bachelor's degree in sociology, both from the University of Washington. 

Committee 

Justice Assistance Grants Advisory Committee members hail from the criminal justice, legal, social services and public health sectors. 

The state receives its share of JAG funds through a formula weighing population and crime statistics, with 60% going to state programs and 40% to local governments. 

Hollis will contribute to the committee's work shaping JAG funding priorities in Washington, while also supporting outreach through his professional networks in the field. 

"This invitation reflects both his professional expertise and the high regard in which he is held across the region," the city added. "It also highlights the city's ongoing commitment to collaboration, accountability, and strengthening public safety through partnership."