Information from City of Burien

Burien City Manager Adolfo Bailon has selected Tom Calabrese to be Burien’s next police chief.

Calabrese has served as Captain of the Burien Police Department (BPD) since April 2023, and is currently serving as interim chief.

Calabrese’s strong ties to Burien include spending the first 16 of his 24-year career with King County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) in Precinct 4, an area that covers White Center and Burien. 

Starting as a patrol deputy in the City of Burien in 2000, Calabrese was later promoted to master police officer and then served as a special emphasis team (SET) detective. In 2016, he became a patrol sergeant in the Sound Transit Division, where he was promoted to captain in 2021.

 “I came back to Burien and Precinct 4 because this is where I got my start as a young deputy and spent the first 16 years of my career here,” Calabrese shared when asked why he came back to serve Burien. “It has always been home to me and when this opportunity presented itself, I couldn’t say no. I also came back because I hope and want to have an impact on the current generation of officers that are working in Burien. I would want the community to know that I truly care for Burien and want to see it flourish.”

Calabrese will soon transition from his interim role into the chief of police role effective August 31, 2024.

“Tom Calabrese has demonstrated an exceptional dedication for serving the Burien community, and his genuine care and passion for the job are undeniable,” said City Manager Adolfo Bailon. “We are thrilled to continue working with Tom and look forward to his continued service in Burien.”