Sheriff Keith Swank, a seasoned law enforcement leader, has dedicated his career to serving and protecting communities with integrity, innovation, and compassion. 

Sheriff Swank’s leadership style is defined by his ability to think strategically and act swiftly, especially in dangerous situations. Whether facing down violent criminals or managing complex operations, he has a proven track record of finding creative solutions that prioritize public safety and resolve conflicts peacefully. His extensive experience as a patrol officer in Seattle taught him not only how to engage with diverse communities, but also how to make rapid, high-stakes decisions in moments of crisis. 

Prior to his election as Sheriff of Pierce County, Swank commanded the SWAT team responsible for clearing and securing the CHOP/CHAZ zone during the 2020 Seattle riots, one of many operations that highlighted his decisive leadership in high-pressure, life-or-death situations. 

During his 15 years as a patrol officer in Seattle, Sheriff Swank rose to the rank of Sergeant, overseeing and directly participating in the arrest of numerous violent criminals and offenders. He led a wide range of high-stakes undercover operations, successfully orchestrating the apprehension of many dangerous individuals. In his supervisory role, Swank also managed 911 emergency response operations, overseeing a team of more than 100 personnel. 

In 2006, as a Sergeant, Swank played a pivotal role in de-escalating a tense hostage situation involving a mass shooter at the Seattle Jewish Federation, using tactical communication to defuse the threat and secure a peaceful surrender.

Lieutenant Swank served as a watch commander leading dozens of men and women during the night shift in the Rainier Valley of Seattle. After his tour there, Lieutenant Swank was assigned as the commander of the training section where he helped develop de-escalation and crisis intervention training that are models for police agencies across the United States. A recognized authority in de-escalation tactics, Sheriff Swank became a subject matter expert for the U.S. Department of Justice, training law enforcement agencies nationwide in crisis intervention and de-escalation.

Captain Swank led emergency response teams and served as Night Duty Commander, the highest-ranking officer in Seattle during overnight hours. He also commanded the Metro Special Response Section, which includes SWAT, Harbor Patrol, Canine Unit, and the Arson Bomb Squad. 

Growing up on a rural farm instilled in Swank a strong work ethic, which he carried with him when he enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 18. He graduated from elite military training, including Ranger School, Airborne School, and High-Altitude Low Opening (HALO) training. After being honorably discharged from Fort Lewis, he attained a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Washington. 

Sheriff Swank is a graduate of the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission and the Northwest Law Enforcement Command College. His commitment to training, transparency, care, and community engagement remains the cornerstones of his service as Sheriff.