North Bend Transitions to King County Sheriff's Office Policing

A new era of law enforcement began in North Bend at midnight on April 1, 2026, as the King County Sheriff’s Office officially took over police services for the city. The change comes after a new contract went into effect on Wednesday morning.

Fourteenth City to Contract with Sheriff's Office

North Bend is now the 14th city within King County to contract with the King County Sheriff’s Office for policing. While patrol cars and uniforms will display “North Bend police” branding, the department will be staffed by King County Sheriff’s deputies. Sgt. Edward Hall will serve as the city’s police chief.

Chief Hall's Vision for North Bend

“A lot of work went into getting here, and I’m ready to hit the ground running,” Hall stated to KOMO News. He brings years of experience with the sheriff’s office, having served in patrol, investigations, and administration. One of his initial priorities is to build the team, with plans to hire 10 full-time officers and a detective.

“We actually have quite a few people in the hiring process — a lot of lateral officers coming in from around the state, which is very encouraging,” Hall added. Currently, the city is being staffed with deputies working overtime shifts from other areas of the county.

Transition Following Contract Dispute

The move follows the North Bend city council’s decision last year to end its contract with the Snoqualmie Police Department, which had provided policing services since 2012. The decision stemmed from claims of a breach of contract and concerns over the cost of services. Records indicate the lawsuit was settled out of court last fall.

Mayor Miller Highlights Community Benefits

Mayor Mary Miller expressed enthusiasm for the transition, stating, “Our community is very excited about this transition.” She noted the increased visibility of King County Sheriff’s vehicles in the months leading up to the change. Miller also anticipates long-term savings and expanded resources through the new partnership.

“We have more social services that are combined, and we have a broader network of partners that can help us,” Miller explained. “I can’t wait for our community to get to know our wonderful police force.”

Chief Hall also expressed a personal connection to the community, sharing, “My father was a police officer for the North Bend Police Department in the early ’70s when I was born. I had a great childhood growing up out here, and I just want to give back to the community.”