City of Lakewood puts police chief on leave
Aug 20, 2026, 6:16 PM
A photo of a Lakewood Police Department vehicle. (Photo courtesy of the Lakewood Police Department)
(Photo courtesy of the Lakewood Police Department)
The City of Lakewood has put its police chief on leave.
The Tacoma News Tribune reported that Chief Patrick Smith was placed on administrative leave last week while the city reviews what it calls “multiple investigative reports” and no-confidence votes.
The move comes about eight months after the unions representing the city’s police officers, sergeants, and captains all voted no confidence in his leadership. They accused Smith of communication problems and being disengaged.
Assistant Chief David Claridge has taken over as acting chief.
Smith declined to comment.
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