Bellingham Police Department Chief Clifford Cook has announced his retirement from the Bellingham Police Department effective November 30, 2017.
After 41 years in law enforcement, Cook has a long career of public service and effective leadership. He started with the Bellingham Police Department in February 2013 and worked previously in other city police departments, including as the Chief of Police in Vancouver, Wash.
In his retirement announcement, Chief Cook cited the need to spend more time with his family. “After much introspection and the need to assist my siblings and parents, I have made the difficult decision to retire. After 41 years of service, this is a hard decision for me. It is particularly difficult when I consider what a great department BPD is and how fortunate I have been to be your Chief.”
Mayor Kelli Linville will announce an interim chief within the next few weeks.
“Chief Cook has provided outstanding service to our community, and exhibits strong ethical and strategic leadership for the Bellingham Police Department,” Linville said. “I wish him the best in his future endeavors. He will be missed.”
