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SeaTac Today
By the People, for the People
City of SeaTac Selects New Police Chief
Marcus Williams, a 35-year law enforcement veteran, will lead the SeaTac Police Department.
Apr. 17, 2026 at 10:34pm
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The selection of a new police chief signals a critical transition for public safety leadership in the City of SeaTac.SeaTac TodayThe City of SeaTac has selected Marcus Williams as its next police chief, replacing former Chief Troy Smithmeyer who resigned in January. Williams, a 35-year veteran of law enforcement, was chosen following a competitive recruitment process conducted in partnership with the King County Sheriff's Office.
Why it matters
The selection of a new police chief is a critical decision for any city, as the police department plays a vital role in maintaining public safety and community trust. Williams' extensive experience in law enforcement, including serving as chief in other cities, makes him well-qualified to lead the SeaTac Police Department.
The details
Williams will command the SeaTac Police Department, which is managed by the King County Sheriff's Office (KCSO). He began his law enforcement career in 1991 with KCSO after serving in the U.S. Navy. Over the course of his career, he has worked in multiple South King County cities, including Federal Way, Burien, Covington, Maple Valley, Newcastle and SeaTac, serving in patrol, investigative and command roles. Most recently, Williams served as chief of the Sound Transit Police before returning to the Sheriff's Criminal Investigations Division.
- Williams is expected to transition into the role by the end of April 2026.
- The position became open after the resignation of Chief Troy Smithmeyer in January 2026.
The players
Marcus Williams
A nearly 35-year veteran of law enforcement who was selected as the new police chief for the City of SeaTac.
Jonathan Young
The City Manager of SeaTac who announced the selection of Marcus Williams as the new police chief.
Troy Smithmeyer
The former police chief of the SeaTac Police Department who resigned in January 2026.
Mike Smith
The captain who served as acting chief during the transition period after Smithmeyer's departure.
King County Sheriff's Office
The law enforcement agency that manages the SeaTac Police Department.
What they’re saying
“Marcus brings several years of prior experience serving as a Chief of Police, along with a depth of strategic leadership that was evident throughout the process. He has shared a clear and compelling vision for the role one that reflects both the immediate needs of the organization and a forward looking approach to strengthening public safety and community trust in SeaTac.”
— Jonathan Young, City Manager, City of SeaTac
“Mike has led with professionalism and steadiness, and his commitment to the organization and community has been evident throughout this transition.”
— Jonathan Young, City Manager, City of SeaTac
What’s next
The city expects Williams to fully transition into the role of police chief by the end of April 2026.
The takeaway
The selection of Marcus Williams as the new police chief for the City of SeaTac represents an experienced and strategic leader who will work to strengthen public safety and community trust in the city's law enforcement.