Councilmembers recognize the distinguished career of King County Sheriff Major Jim Graddon

April 22, 2013

Summary

South County native set to retire at the end of April

Story

Recognizing a law enforcement career that spans four decades, the Metropolitan King County Council today honored Major Jim Graddon for his work for the people of King County. Major Graddon has served 39 years in law enforcement, including the past 34 years with the King County Sheriff’s Office.

Major Graddon has worked in numerous roles in law enforcement. Since 2007 he has served as Major in the Sheriff’s Office and Chief of Police for the city of SeaTac. He also serves as Commander of the Sheriff Office’s Southwest Precinct, which covers unincorporated areas throughout southwest King County and the contract cities of Burien and SeaTac.

Graddon announced his retirement in January and will formally retire from his post with the Sheriff’s Office and the city of SeaTac at the end of April.

“In addition to keeping King County safe, Major Graddon has had a tremendous impact upon communities in King County, especially South King County,” said Council Vice Chair Julia Patterson, who represents part of SeaTac and Burien on the County Council. “His involvement in issues such as youth violence prevention and ending human trafficking are a testament to his willingness to engage with communities to develop solutions. He has made King County a better place, and I wish him well in retirement.”

“Major Graddon is what we hope all our law enforcement officers are. He knows and respects the community he serves. He is dedicated to making King County a safer place to live, work and play. His retirement is a loss to King County, but it is well-deserved,” said Councilmember Joe McDermott, who represents North Highline on the County Council.

Graddon had a significant role in the investigation of one the most notorious criminal cases in the nation’s history – the Green River Killer case. He worked on various aspects of the case, including serving as Commander of the Green River Task Force, where through interviews with Gary Ridgway, Graddon helped gain information to locate the remains of victims. This information helped bring closure for families affected by the crimes.

A native of South King County, Graddon is a graduate of Burien’s Kennedy High School. He has served on many committees and South King County community organizations during his law enforcement tenure.




Councilmembers join Major Jim Graddon and his wife Linda after the Council recognized Graddon’s 39 years of service to the people of King County as a member of the King County Sheriff’s Office.