About

Brian Burnett

Brian and April Burnett

Meet Brian

Brian is a respected figure in the community, residing in Wenatchee with his wife, April, of nearly 37 years. Together, they have raised a loving family, with seven children and eight grandchildren, and more on the way. This strong family connection fuels Brian's passion for building a better future for all residents of District 12.

Brian's career in law enforcement spans over 25 years, cumulating in his retirement in January of 2023. He served 12 of those years as the elected Chelan County Sheriff.

Currently, Brian is the Director of Law Enforcement Services for Seattle’s Finest Security and Traffic Control and serves as the Administrative Liaison for the Washington State Sheriffs Association. Brian is well-equipped to navigate the complex issues facing our communities.

Brian is eager to continue his public service to the citizens of District 12. He plans to leverage his extensive experience to work collaboratively with other legislators to safeguard and enhance the quality of life for all residents and ensure a bright future for generations to come.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

  • 2022 — President of the Washington State Sheriffs Association (WSSA)
  • 2019-2021 — Vice President of the Washington State Sheriffs Association (WSSA)
  • 2018-2019 — Secretary / Treasurer of (WSSA) Washington State Sheriffs Association
  • 2018 — Mass Shooting Committee Work Group
  • 2018-2019 — Past President of the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs
  • 2017-2018 — President of the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPC)
  • 2016-2017 — Vice President of WASPC
  • 2015-2016 — Executive Board of WASPC / Sheriff at Large Position
  • 2015 — FBINA National Academy Graduate Class #262
  • 2014-2020 — (SONAR) Sex Offender Notification and Registration Committee
  • 2011-2022 — Chair for Chelan County Regional Drug Task Force

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

North Central Washington Chaplain Foundation
A non-profit serving Chelan and Douglas Counties first responder agencies and employees.
- 2014-2023 — Executive Board Member / Interim Chair

UVCARES
A non-profit organization that delivers mental healthcare and substance addiction assessments and treatment while addressing barriers that include access, affordability, and community outreach.
- 2020-2023 — Executive Board Member

Family Lines
A non-Profit Father / Son fly fishing, rafting and kayaking expeditions.
- 2015-2018 — Executive Board Member

Royal Family Kids (RFK)
A non-profit summer camp for abused and/or neglected Foster Children ages 6-12.
- 2019-2021 — Camp Director
- 2016-2018 — Dean of Men
- 2014-2015 — Counselor

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AS SHERIFF

  • Implemented a Regional Mental Health Co-Response Team that worked directly with local law enforcement agencies in Chelan and Douglas counties to better identify persons in crisis and make available resources that would best assist persons in crisis with the goal of getting them long term results.
  • Worked with State Legislators to secure a $1.2 million capital projects grant for a Regional Emergency Operations Center
  • Received grant funding for first stage of outfitting patrol vehicles with AED’s, Automated External Defibrillators.
  • Partnered with Cascade, Cashmere, Chelan and Manson School Districts for School Resource Officers.
  • Worked closely with County Commissioners and County Administrator to remain fiscally responsible while managing up to a $14 million-dollar annual budget, while providing public safety and Emergency Management services throughout Chelan County and keeping an emphasis on quality training and equipment that translated into great service.