Renton, WA— The Renton City Council meeting took time to recognize members of the Renton Police Department for outstanding service, career milestones, and some new units that required considerably more belly rubs than most.
Meet the New K9s
The department welcomed two new canine officers to the force. Officer David Daugherty is partnered with K9 Oakley, a two-year-old yellow English Labrador who will serve as the department’s therapy and wellness dog, supporting victims and officers through emotionally trying moments. Officer Jaren Jokela joins with K9 Jager, a 29-month-old German Shepherd trained through the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office who specializes in locating evidence and suspects.
A Career Defined by Persistence
Detective Tracie Jarratt received the department’s Meritorious Service Award, reserved for officers whose conduct is deemed exceptional. The recognition highlighted her 30-year career with RPD— and in particular, work she began in 2019 that established probable cause in a 1994 cold case. That case concluded with a guilty verdict late last year, in 2025.
Promotions
Three officers received promotions:
- Commander Denis Moynihan
- Sergeant Meg Braun
- Sergeant Casey Proctor
Employees of the Year
The department’s Employee of the Year program is driven by the Chief’s Advisory Committee, whose members nominate and vote on a Member of the Quarter every three months. From those four honorees, one Employee of the Year is selected, but this cycle produced a tie worth celebrating. Animal Control Officer Tom Wilkinson and Patrol Operations Officer Greg Bills were jointly recognized for 2025.
From the Chief
RPD Chief Jon Schuldt closed the presentation with a note on what the recognition means to him and the department.
“True policing goes beyond enforcing laws,” Schuldt said. “It’s about making a meaningful, positive difference in the lives of those we serve and those we serve with. I appreciate the council for allowing us to celebrate these amazing accomplishments and as always, thank you for your continued support.”
