Community Government Police & Fire

City hires Federici as permanent police chief

Tray Federici will be the Gig Harbor police chief on a permanent basis, the city announced early on Monday, Sept. 22.

Federici, has been the interim chief since Kelly Busey retired in June. He was among four finalists the city announced at an open house earlier this month.

“I’m humbled and excited to carry forward the mission and vision of the City of Gig Harbor, the Gig Harbor Police Department, and our community,” Federici said in a news release from the city. “I’m grateful for the strong foundation built before me, and I’m committed to honoring and building upon that foundation as we continue our mission delivering the best possible public safety and service to our community.”

Gig Harbor Interim Chief Tray Federici during an open house at the Civic Center on Thursday, Sept. 4. Photo by Vince Dice

Federici’s career

Federici has worked in law enforcement since 2002 in Florida, South Carolina and Colorado. At Gig Harbor, he served as a patrol officer, detective, sergeant and lieutenant.

He is a U.S. Coast Guard Reserve officer. Federici became familiar with Gig Harbor during a Coast Guard training mission and fell in love with the community, he told Gig Harbor Now at the open house.

“I’m looking forward to working more closely with Chief Federici and his team, and to seeing how he continues to make our police so integral in this wonderful community,” Mayor Mary Barber said in the news release. “Chief Federici’s passion and commitment to Gig Harbor are just two things that made him rise to the top in this process.”

Union support

Members of the union representing officers and sergeants at the department endorsed Federici for the post shortly after the Sept. 4 open house. According to Teamsters Local 117, officers “overwhelmingly” backed Federici for the job.

“Chief Federici has earned the trust and respect of GHPD officers through his consistent, people-first leadership,” Officer Chet Dennis, the union’s steward, said in news release from the Teamsters. “His clear vision for the department’s future aligns with our community’s evolving needs, ensuring proactive strategies and enhanced safety for officers and residents alike. I am confident Chief Federici will lead GHPD with integrity and dedication, making our city safer and stronger.”

Other finalists included Washington State Patrol Assistant Chief James Mjor, a Washington State Patrol; former Poulsbo Police Chief Dan Schoonmaker; and Steilacoom Chief Tom Yabe.