Thursday, October 1, 2026
Olympia City Manager Jay Burney has appointed Deputy Police Chief Shelby Parker to serve as interim chief of the Olympia Police Department (OPD).
The move comes on the heels of Chief Rich Allen’s retirement, which took effect on Monday, June 16.
Parker has more than two decades of experience in the OPD. She began her career in the department in 2003. She earned a bachelor's degree in Anthropology from the University of Washington.
Throughout her tenure, she has held various positions within the department, gaining experience in patrol, investigations, training and leadership.
“It is an incredible honor to serve the City of Olympia as the Interim Chief of Police,” said Parker in a statement released by the city.
“I step into this role with humility and a deep commitment to continuing Chief Allen’s legacy of leadership rooted in transparency and strong community relationships.”
With Parker now serving as interim chief, Burney said staff will develop a process for selecting the department’s next permanent chief.
“The city is committed to a broad, inclusive and transparent process. As the search process gets underway in the future, the city will keep the community well-informed and engaged in the selection process,” said Burney, adding the community will be engaged in the process selection.
2 comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here
OlyBlues
Of all the poor decisions that usually come from city of Olympia government, this is a very good decision. Shelby is a well respected leader, ethical, compassionate, and competent. She cares about the officers and the community and has common sense. Based on the horrible leadership plaguing the rest of the city of Olympia ad city council, Shelby's appointment is a refreshing decision. I hope she becomes full time chief.
Tuesday, June 24, 2025 Report this
terry
Make sure selection criteria focuses on performance history and overall superior qualifications with no consideration of irrelevant immutable characteristics.
Thursday, June 26, 2025 Report this