5 Critical Updates: What Bonney Lake Police Department Is Doing Right Now To Keep Your Community Safe

The Bonney Lake Police Department (BLPD) is currently undergoing a significant evolution in its approach to public safety, moving beyond traditional law enforcement to embrace comprehensive community-based services. As of December 2025, the department is focused on enhancing its community engagement, expanding mental health support, and implementing new strategies under fresh leadership to address the unique challenges facing Pierce County residents. This article provides an in-depth look at the most recent and critical updates from the BLPD, highlighting the initiatives, personnel changes, and key services that define the department's commitment to preserving peace and providing quality law enforcement within the framework of the Constitution. For citizens of Bonney Lake, understanding these developments is key to appreciating the efforts to maintain a safe and thriving environment.

A New Era of Leadership and Departmental Structure

The Bonney Lake Police Department operates out of the Public Safety Building located at 18421 Veterans Memorial DR E, serving the City of Bonney Lake, Washington. The department has recently seen a significant change in its top command, ushering in a new era of leadership.

Chief Mark Berry: Guiding the BLPD Forward

The department is currently led by Chief of Police Mark Berry. Chief Berry took the helm following the retirement of former Chief Bryan Jeter, who concluded a commendable 22-year tenure of service to the city. Chief Berry is actively presenting monthly updates and reports to the Bonney Lake City Council, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and communication regarding police operations and initiatives, such as the Allan Yorke Park Operational Plan.

BLPD's Operational Strength

The Bonney Lake Police Department maintains a robust structure designed to effectively serve the community. The team is composed of 31 commissioned officers who are on the front lines of law enforcement. Supporting these officers is a dedicated staff of 7.6 civilian support personnel, who handle critical administrative and support functions, ensuring the smooth operation of the department’s services, from Police Records to Police Administration. This structure is vital for delivering comprehensive police services to the growing population of Bonney Lake.

Cutting-Edge Community Policing and Mental Health Initiatives

The BLPD recognizes that modern law enforcement requires a holistic approach that extends beyond arrests and citations. They are actively investing in programs that build mutual trust and address the root causes of community issues.

Expanded Mental Health Support Services

In a significant and progressive move, the Bonney Lake Police Department has expanded its mental health support services. The department entered a contract agreement with a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) on February 1st to bolster its capabilities in this critical area. This initiative provides essential peer support training for officers and introduces specialized services designed to assist individuals experiencing a mental health crisis within the community. This focus on mental health is a key component of their modern community policing strategy.

The Citizen's Academy: Fostering Trust

Building strong relationships with the public is a core mission of the BLPD. The department hosts the Citizen's Academy, a free, 7-week, classroom-based course. This popular program offers citizens hands-on learning experiences and mock scenes, providing a transparent look into the complex work of police officers. This educational initiative is crucial for fostering a relationship of mutual trust between the agency and the community it serves.

Traffic Safety and WTSC Collaboration

The BLPD is also heavily involved in traffic safety initiatives. The department works closely with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) and has a dedicated resource, Cesi Velez, who helps manage and implement state-sponsored traffic safety initiatives. These efforts include targeted patrols and educational campaigns aimed at reducing accidents and promoting safe driving habits on Bonney Lake’s roadways.

Recent Public Safety Focus and Essential Services

The Bonney Lake Police Department remains vigilant in responding to crime and providing accessible services to residents. Recent incidents and ongoing service updates demonstrate the department's operational readiness.

Recent Incidents in 2024 and 2025

The BLPD has been actively managing various public safety challenges, as evidenced by recent news reports. In June 2024, the department responded to a shooting incident where one person was injured, following multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired. Furthermore, in January 2025, Bonney Lake police officers were involved in an incident leading to the arrest of a teen who allegedly pointed a laser and shot at them with a BB gun, highlighting the ongoing risks faced by officers. These events underscore the need for continued vigilance and effective law enforcement presence in the area.

Online Reporting and Accessibility

For non-emergency situations, the BLPD, in partnership with South Sound 911, offers the convenience of online reporting. This service allows citizens to report certain crimes or incidents digitally, streamlining the process and freeing up emergency lines for critical situations. The department's official website serves as a hub for these services, including an online directory and information on upcoming community events.

Transparency in Use of Force Policy

In line with statewide standards, the Bonney Lake Police Department maintains transparency regarding its operational policies, including the use of force and de-escalation tactics. The agency’s use-of-force policy is consistent with new standards adopted into Washington state law, ensuring accountability and adherence to best practices in officer conduct. The Bonney Lake Police Department is clearly a proactive and evolving law enforcement agency. Under the leadership of Chief Mark Berry, the department is not only focused on traditional crime fighting but is also pioneering a community-first approach. By expanding mental health support, engaging the public through the Citizen’s Academy, and maintaining strong operational readiness, the BLPD is setting a high standard for contemporary law enforcement in the Pierce County region. Residents can rely on a department committed to safety, transparency, and a deep partnership with the community.

Detail Author:

• Name : Nicole Fritsch PhD
• Username : mlarson
• Email : becker.hilbert@denesik.biz
• Birthdate : 1997-11-09
• Address : 976 Luella Extension Apt. 086 Lake Kaseyhaven, AK 59126-1005
• Phone : 425.867.7010
• Company : Willms and Sons
• Job : Farm and Home Management Advisor
• Bio : Tempora illum illum pariatur. Accusantium qui rem fugit quos. Laboriosam omnis possimus eius dolores minus.

Socials

twitter:

• url : https://twitter.com/angelitastreich
• username : angelitastreich
• bio : Illum nam sapiente facere consequatur. Exercitationem consectetur ullam animi aut aut voluptates. Necessitatibus iste quas sit velit porro voluptatem.
• followers : 5122
• following : 425

facebook:

• url : https://facebook.com/astreich
• username : astreich
• bio : Quia in harum ut perferendis eum. Voluptas qui odio non est explicabo omnis ut.
• followers : 5568
• following : 2851

linkedin:

• url : https://linkedin.com/in/astreich
• username : astreich
• bio : Vitae sit omnis possimus mollitia qui.
• followers : 377
• following : 1019