PRESS RELEASE

November 12, 2022: 12:58 PM: For immediate Release

With over 32 years of law enforcement experience, 

Susanna Johnson announces campaign for Snohomish County Sheriff

“Snohomish County needs a Sheriff with integrity. 

A Sheriff who prioritizes public safety – not politics.”

-Former Snohomish County Sheriff Jim Scharf (1988-1995) and 

Everett Police Chief (1995-2011)

CONTACT: [email protected]

Lake Stevens, Wash. – Susanna Johnson, a decorated law enforcement leader with over three decades of keeping communities safe in Snohomish County, formally announced today she will be running for Snohomish County Sheriff in the 2023 election. Johnson worked for 30 years at the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office, and currently serves as Deputy Chief at the Bothell Police Department. She began her career as a patrol deputy and worked in a variety of roles over the years in some of the toughest unit assignments in the agency, including as a K-9 handler, narcotics detective, SWAT member, as well as holding the honor as the Sheriff’s Office first female patrol captain. 

“Integrity and a service mindset are key to building safe neighborhoods and strong communities,” said Johnson. “From my first days as a patrol deputy to my time as a SWAT squad leader, I learned how to use tactics and respectful communication to effectively improve and secure public safety.  As I rose through the ranks to the position of Bureau Chief, I learned the leadership skills necessary to support and develop staff, and create meaningful partnerships to better serve our residents of Snohomish County.  I am honored to work in law enforcement and feel my passion, character, and experience is what the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office needs right now.”

Johnson is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, the most sought-after executive law enforcement leadership training in the world, and a recipient of Meritorious and Distinguished Service Medals. 

“Snohomish County needs an experienced leader to step up and lead the Sheriff’s Office during this critical time for the law enforcement profession – to recruit new deputies and keep the best working in our communities,” said Washington State Senator and Former Sheriff John Lovick (2008-2013). “Johnson is the law enforcement leader Snohomish County needs.”

Drawing on her past experience with the agency, Johnson has established guiding principles for leading the law enforcement agency with over 800 employees and a diverse group of departments and units – from corrections to search and rescue. 

“As Sheriff, I would lead by example to ensure the deputies, corrections deputies, support staff and volunteers embody the characteristics necessary to improve safety and sustain public trust, by adhering to strong ethical values and transparent accountability,” said Johnson. “I am committed to providing professional public safety services with respect and humility, setting expectations that are clear, standards that are high, and actions that are free of bias.”

“Johnson truly cares about people.  She builds long-lasting relationships with staff and the community that are based upon trust and mutual respect,” said former Snohomish County Sheriff Ty Trenary (2013-2020).  

A native of the Pacific Northwest, Susanna Johnson lives in 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.

Learn more at www.susannajohnsonforsheriff.com or on Facebook at JohnsonforSnoCoSheriff