Dear Residents of Orting,

As we reflect on 2025, I am incredibly proud of what the Orting Police Department accomplished over the past year. Our officers, staff, and community partners continued to demonstrate professionalism, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to public safety. Together, we made meaningful progress that will positively impact our city for years to come.

One of the most significant milestones we achieved in 2025 was reaching full staffing for the first time in many years. Maintaining a fully staffed police department allows us to better serve our community, dedicate more time to proactive policing and training, and continue building strong relationships with the residents we serve. We are especially excited to welcome our newest officer, Officer Joe Halahuni, formerly of the Puyallup Police Department. Officer Halahuni brings extensive technical expertise in traffic enforcement, traffic safety education, drone operations, and major collision investigations, all of which will strengthen our department’s capabilities and enhance roadway safety throughout Orting.

This year also marked the restoration of our School Resource Officer position, reaffirming our department’s commitment to school safety and our partnership with the Orting School District. Ensuring that our students, teachers, and families feel safe and supported remains one of our highest priorities.  In addition, the department worked closely with city leadership to create and pass legislation authorizing automated school-zone safety cameras. These cameras went live in June of 2026 and represent another important step toward protecting children and improving driver behavior in school zones.

Community engagement remained a central focus throughout the year. Our officers hosted and participated in numerous public events, including the Orting Police Department Trunk-or-Treat Halloween event, Touch-a-Truck, and several outreach and educational events in partnership with the United States Geological Survey (USGS). These events provided valuable opportunities to connect with residents, build trust, educate the public, and strengthen relationships throughout the community.

Finally, while we often celebrate operational accomplishments, it is equally important to celebrate the people behind the badge. This year, our department family grew a little larger as our Detective welcomed a baby boy into the world. Moments like these remind us that behind every uniform is a family, a life, and a deep personal commitment to serving this community.

I want to personally thank the residents of Orting for your continued trust and support. Our officers are proud to serve this community, and we remain committed to providing professional, compassionate, and community-focused policing. We look forward to building on the successes of 2025 and continuing to make Orting one of the safest and most connected communities in Washington State.

I want to personally thank the residents of Orting for your continued trust and support. Our officers are proud to serve this community, and we remain committed to providing professional, compassionate, and community-focused policing.

We look forward to building on the successes of 2025 and continuing to make Orting one of the safest communities in Washington State.

 Sincerely, 

Devon Gabreluk
Chief of Police