Keith Swank sworn in as Pierce County Sheriff, pledges to combat human trafficking

Newly elected Pierce County Sheriff Keith Swank was officially sworn in on January 15, 2025, vowing to prioritize the fight against human trafficking and ensure transparency within the Sheriff's Department. Swank, who replaced former Sheriff Ed Troyer after a competitive election, emphasized the need for a well-staffed department and announced plans for ongoing training for law enforcement officers. His swearing-in ceremony, held at Frontier Park Lodge, drew a crowd of over 100 attendees, including key community leaders and law enforcement officials. During his address, Swank expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and outlined his vision of inclusive leadership by allowing department members to apply for leadership roles. He noted that this approach is a departure from traditional practices, which often favor personal connections.

Swank's commitment to combating human trafficking aligns with increasing concerns in Pierce County, where reported offenses have risen significantly in recent years. He aims to establish a task force to address these issues collaboratively across various law enforcement agencies. With a promise of transparency, Swank stated the department would openly share information and acknowledge mistakes while standing firm on justified actions.