Captain Steve Paulsen, commander of West Seattle's Southwest Precinct, was officially recognized at Seattle City Hall on March 30th for his promotion to Captain.

Captain Paulsen took over as the SW Precinct commander in October of 2010, but today marked his official transition. Fourteen other Seattle Police Department employees were also promoted.

To learn more about Captain Paulsen, please check out the Herald article Captain Steve Paulsen returns to West Seattle as commander.

Below is a press release from the SPD on the promotion event:

SPD promotes fourteen employees – Family members practice tradition of pinning on the badge

The Seattle Police Department today promoted seven officers and seven civilians to their respective ranks. The promotees were recognized for their leadership, years of service and accomplishments. As their names were called, the traditional practice of pinning on the badge was done often by a family member as colleagues and friends applauded. The promotional ceremony was held at the Bertha Knight Landes Room in the City Hall Building.

Promoted to Deputy Chief is Nick Metz, a 24-year veteran who oversees the Patrol Operations, Criminal Investigations and Special Operations Bureaus.

Promoted to Assistant Chief is Paul McDonagh, a 27-year veteran who oversees the Special Operations Bureau that includes Homeland Security, Traffic and Parking Enforcement, Metro Special Response, and Criminal Intelligence.

Promoted to Captain are Mike Nolan and Steve Paulsen. Nolan is 26-year veteran who commands the South Precinct. Paulsen is also a 26-year veteran who commands the Southwest Precinct.

Promoted to Sergeant are Linda Cook, Nathan Upton and Joe Fountain. Cook is assigned to the West Precinct and is a 14-year veteran. Upton works in the Office of Professional Accountability and is 12-year veteran. Fountain is in the Crisis Intervention Section and is a 20-year veteran.

Promoted to Chief Dispatcher is Sandra Moss, who is a 15-year veteran.

Promoted to Communications Dispatcher Supervisors are Rena Martinez, Matthew O’Neill and Sharon Burk.

Promoted to Parking Enforcement Supervisors are Laura Fox, Douglas Lancia and Thomas Little.