City of Vancouver announces next police chief

Jeffrey Mori has been the assistant chief for the Vancouver Police Department the past three years

VANCOUVER – After conducting a national search, along with a transparent and inclusive hiring process, the city of Vancouver has selected Jeffrey Mori as its next chief of police. This appointment is effective at 5 p.m. on June 30. 

“Assistant Chief Mori’s experience and background, teamed with his proven ability to build and maintain meaningful relationships in the community, has prepared him well for this role,” said City Manager Eric Holmes. “His clear vision for the future of community safety in Vancouver helped him emerge as the top candidate in a very competitive pool. I am confident in his ability to lead our Police Department in its next chapter.” 

Mori will bring 29 years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience to the role, including nine years as undersheriff for Washington County, Oregon and most recently three years as assistant chief for the Vancouver Police Department. He is a graduate of the Police Executive Research Forum’s (PERF) Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP), the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) National Academy, the Oregon State Sheriff’s Associated Command College, and the Harvard Kennedy School Senior Executives in State and Local Government program. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Oregon State University and is working toward his master’s in Public Safety from University of Virginia (projected 2023). 

“The NAACP is proud of the decision the city made. Jeff Mori has shown consistent commitment in navigating difficult and systematic issues within our community,” said Vancouver NAACP President Jasmine Tolbert. “Jeff has a healthy commitment to racial equity, and we hope to continue to partner with him on that journey. Ultimately the NAACP of Vancouver is here to hold the Vancouver Police Department accountable, but we are excited to work with Jeff.”  

“I am tremendously honored and excited to be able to serve the Vancouver Police Department as its next chief,” said incoming Police Chief Jeff Mori. “The Vancouver Police Department is a premier agency in Washington thanks to the professionalism and service of the men and women who show up each day to do the work to keep our community safe. I look forward to leading the Vancouver Police Department in our continued efforts to expand community partnerships and relationships, grow the agency and increase transparency and trust.” 

Information regarding a formal swearing-in ceremony for the incoming chief of police will follow at a later date. 

Information provided by city of Vancouver.