Blaine Police Department (BPD) recently welcomed a new officer. Police chief Donnell Tanksley said the department still has two vacancies left to fill and are conducting preliminary interviews.
The department was understaffed starting in February 2021 when two officers left for other law enforcement opportunities. Another position opened up in April 2021 when lieutenant Ryan King retired.
Michael Munden was promoted from sergeant to lieutenant following King’s retirement; two new officers, Jordan Maphumulo and Katelyn Weaver, were hired in June 2021; and two officers, Skylar Deffinbaugh and Timothy Richardson, were promoted to sergeant in August of last year.
Officer Kevin O’Neill joined BPD in February from the Lummi Nation Police Department. He grew up on Orcas Island and has lived in Whatcom County since 2000, according to BPD. He studied music performance at Western Washington University and received a minor in environmental studies.
O’Neill also serves as a member of the Washington National Guard.
He plays euphonium and trombone and is a tournament swordsman. He and his husband have been together 16 years and have a 9-year-old dog.
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