Today, the Port of Seattle Commission unanimously adopted an order I introduced to strengthen transparency and accountability standards for the Port of Seattle Police Department.
In this moment of heightened fear and uncertainty around federal immigration enforcement, it's essential that our community knows the Port of Seattle is committed to maintaining clear, accountable, and welcoming public safety practices at our facilities.
This order addresses several key areas. You can read the full Order 2026-02 here.
First, it eliminates confusing naming conventions that could be mistaken for federal agencies. The Port Police will no longer use the designation "Homeland Security Division," and all divisions will adopt uniform elements that clearly identify officers as part of the Port of Seattle team. When travelers, workers, and visitors see police at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport or our maritime facilities, they should immediately recognize them as Port of Seattle officers, not federal agents.
Second, the order establishes new notification protocols for pre-planned police training and operations in high-visibility public areas such as SEA airport. This advanced notice will ensure proper coordination and public communication. This helps prevent confusion and alarm among the traveling public during what may appear to be heightened security activity.
Third, we're requiring comprehensive annual reporting on use-of-force incidents and complaint handling. The Port Police will report all use-of-force categories to the Commission, including, when collected, demographic information about individuals involved, as well as summaries of commendations, complaints, and disciplinary actions.
The Port of Seattle Police Department operates with the highest standards of professionalism, and this order reinforces our commitment to policing that reflects the Port’s values of equity, inclusion, and public service. Our airports and seaports should be places where everyone feels safe and welcome.
I'm grateful to my fellow Commissioners for their unanimous support of this measure.
Together, we will continue to ensure that the Port and its facilities remain a model for transparent, accountable, and community-focused public safety.
All my best,
Toshiko Grace Hasegawa
Commissioner, Port of Seattle
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