The city of Ferndale has selected its next chief of police; he’s set to begin in July

The city of Ferndale on Monday announced the selection of a new chief of police.

Sean O’Laughlin is set to be sworn in as the city’s top cop following an “extensive search,” according to a Ferndale news release.

“I am grateful for those who participated in the interview process and to those who attended the community reception,” Ferndale Mayor Greg Hansen said in the news release. “I am confident that Mr. O’Laughlin is going to be an outstanding chief of police, a vocal advocate for the city of Ferndale, and equally important, an engaged and enthusiastic member of our Ferndale community.”

O’Laughlin began his law enforcement career in 2001 with the University of Washington Police Department and served as a sergeant for 12 years, according to the city. Since 2019 he has been the Deputy Chief of Police for the Eastern Washington University Police Department in Cheney, Washington.

O’Laughlin replaces former Chief Kevin Turner, who left the department in November after eight years of service to take the same position in Burlington. Matt Huffman, who retired from the Ferndale Police Department as a lieutenant in 2023, has served as the department’s interim chief since Dec. 9.

“I am incredibly excited to serve the city of Ferndale with integrity, dedication and collaboration for a safer community,” O’Laughlin said in Monday’s news release. “As the new chief of police, I firmly believe that the foundation of a safe and thriving community is built on strong partnerships and open collaboration. The Ferndale Police Department is committed to working hand in hand with local leaders, businesses, and most importantly, our residents to foster trust, transparency, and mutual respect. Together, we can create innovative solutions to public safety challenges and ensure that every member of our community feels heard, protected, and valued. I look forward to strengthening these relationships and building a safer, more united future for all.”

O’Laughlin’s hiring still requires the successful completion of a background check and other evaluations, according to the city. He is tentatively scheduled to begin the job July 2. Huffman will continue to serve as interim chief through June.

“Thanks to the exceptional quality of our police officers and staff, and Matt Huffman’s familiarity with the department, we were able to take the time necessary to search for the right person to permanently lead the department,” Mayor Hansen said.

According to the city, O’Lauglin’s qualifications include:

• Serving as the executive officer for Coast Guard Reserve Port Security Unit 313, overseeing a 105-person unit.
• Graduate of the FBI National Academy (Session 287)
• Master’s graduate certificate in public safety from the University of Virginia
• Master’s degree in national security and strategic studies from the U.S. Naval War College
• Master’s degree in executive public administration from the University of Washington
• B.A. in sociology from the University of Washington