Community Government Police & Fire

Lt. Tray Federici to serve as interim police chief after Busey retires

Lt. Tray Federici will serve as interim chief of the Gig Harbor Police Department after Chief Kelly Busey retires on Monday, June 23, the city announced June 17.

Federici has been with the Gig Harbor Police Department for nearly nine years as a detective, sergeant and currently as the administrative lieutenant. His LinkedIn profile indicates he previously worked for police departments in Florida, South Carolina and Colorado.

Lt. Tray Federici

“We are confident in Lt. Federici’s ability to serve the department through this transition,” Mayor Mary Barber said in a news release. “The search for our next permanent police chief will be open, competitive, and guided by community and staff input.”

Busey announced in March that he planned to retire this summer after 34 years with the city. Busey, 60, has been police chief since 2014.

A reception recognizing Busey’s service is planned for 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Monday, June 23, at the Civic Center on Grandview Street.

The city’s press release indicates that it has begun a “comprehensive and inclusive process” to identify the next permanent chief. The statement said the city will incorporate opportunities for community involvement in the hiring process.