Snoqualmie Police Department Works to Reinstate School Resource Officer, Invites Community to Chat with the Chief on September 18

The Snoqualmie Police Department is actively working to reinstate the School Resource Officer (SRO) position, which has remained unfilled since September 3, 2024, due to staffing challenges. Police Chief Brian Lynch emphasizes that filling the SRO role is of utmost importance for the safety of students, faculty, and staff within the Snoqualmie Valley School District. In an effort to address the situation, the department is engaged in actively recruiting a full-time, lateral SRO while also providing daytime patrol officers at Mount Si High School every school day. Chief Lynch anticipates the return of SRO Gutwein in a light-duty capacity within two months following his recovery from a work-related injury, during which time he will act as a liaison between the police department and the school district. To further engage with the community, residents are invited to participate in the next "Chat with the Chief" event on September 18, 2024.

This event will provide opportunities for residents of Snoqualmie and North Bend to discuss the SRO position and other public safety matters. Chief Lynch acknowledges the recent challenges in officer recruitment across the region but assures the community of the department's commitment to maintaining a law enforcement presence in local schools. The police department looks forward to reinstating the school resource officer as soon as possible.