An award-winning law enforcement leader with over 36 years of keeping communities safe, Susanna Johnson has the education, experience, judgment, and integrity to continue to lead our Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office.

From her earliest memories as a child, Susanna always wanted to be a police officer, and was blessed to start her dream job at the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office at the age of 22, where she worked for 30 years.

In that time, she worked in the toughest and most sought-after units, continuously promoting through the ranks. Her assignments included:

• Patrol Deputy
• Detective - Regional Drug Task Force
• K-9 Handler with K-9 Baker (who did all the work)
• SWAT - Entry Team Member, Squad Leader, and Operations Manager
• Detective Sergeant - Investigations & Office of Professional Accountability
• Lieutenant - Watch Commander, Precinct Commander, Hiring & Training
• Captain - Patrol Division Commander
• Bureau Chief of Operations

Susanna Johnson retired from the Sheriff's Office in 2020, failed miserably as a retiree, then was recruited by the Bothell Police Department. She was hired in June of 2020 as a lateral Police Captain, promoting to Deputy Chief in 2022. She served in that capacity until elected. Susanna Johnson was elected as Snohomish County Sheriff and took her oath as the 33rd Sheriff when she began her first term on January 1, 2024.

Susanna is a decorated graduate of the FBI National Academy, which is the most sought-after executive law enforcement leadership training in the world. Throughout her career she worked evenings and weekends to earn her Associates, Bachelors, and eventually her Master's Degree (Liberal Arts).

Like many people, Susanna recognizes that this is a pivotal time for the profession. Although the majority of police officers with Susanna's tenure have elected to retire, she believes this is the most critical time for experienced leaders to step up and lead the way.

A native of the Pacific Northwest, Susanna lives in beautiful Lake Stevens. She is married and enjoys camping, gardening, walking the dogs, hanging out with the kids and grandkids, and building anything. She is also a longtime community volunteer, working with youth across Snohomish County for over 30 years as a coach. She currently serves on the board of three non-profit organizations (supporting area youth and domestic violence victims).

SELECT AWARDS and RECOGNITION

Deputy of the Year
LE Magazine for Life-Saving

Supervisor of the Year Award
Meritorious Service Medal

Vinci Leadership Award
Field Sergeant Leadership Award

Unit Citation
Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force Unit

Snohomish Co DUI Awards (x3)
Drug Arrests with K-9 Partner “Baker”

Distinguished Service Medal
SCSO Agency Medal (Life Saving)