FERNDALE, Wash. — In April 2025, it was announced that Sean O’Laughlin, deputy chief of Eastern Washington University Police, had been chosen as the City of Ferndale’s next chief of police. It was noted that a background investigation was in process and his start date was expected to be in July 2025.
After an extensive search with the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, the City of Ferndale has selected Sean O’Laughlin to serve as the next Chief of Police. Sean O’Laughlin is a seasoned law enforcement and military leader with over two decades of experience.
As is standard for positions in law enforcement, Mr. O’Laughlin’s contract is conditioned on his successful completion of a background check, polygraph, psychological evaluation, and health evaluation.
– City of Ferndale (April 7, 2025)
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On May 20, 2025, the city issued a press release announcing O’Laughlin would not be assuming the position and interim Police Chief Matt Huffman had been selected.
The City of Ferndale is proud to announce the appointment of Matt Huffman as Chief of Police. Huffman has been serving as Interim Chief since December 2024, following the departure of former Chief Kevin Turner, who accepted a new role with the City of Burlington.
In late March, the City of Ferndale made a conditional offer to Sean O’Laughlin to be Chief of Police, however during the rigorous background investigation process and after further discussions between Mr. O’Laughlin and Mayor Hansen, it was concluded that Ferndale’s opportunity was not the right fit for Mr. O’Laughlin.
– City of Ferndale (May 20, 2025)
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Matt Huffman was a lieutenant when he retired in 2023 after 26 years with the Ferndale Police Department.
He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, Session 238 (2009), and played a pivotal role in the department achieving accreditation through the Washington State Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs — one of the highest professional standards for policing.
– City of Ferndale (May 20, 2025)
Huffman contracted with the city to serve as Chief of Police from December 2, 2024, until a newly hired police chief could start. This followed the departure of Chief of Police Kevin Turner when he accepted a position with City of Burlington after 8 years in Ferndale.
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