Tacoma police chief resigns, says he’s leaving law enforcement

Months after he was placed on a brief leave, Tacoma police Chief Avery Moore has submitted his resignation.

Moore was appointed to the job three years ago. In a letter Tuesday to City Manager Elizabeth Pauli, Moore said his last day will be Feb. 3.

“After 35 incredible years in law enforcement, I have made the heartfelt decision to step away from this noble profession and transition into the next chapter of my life,” he wrote.

“During my time in Tacoma, I focused on key goals that were close to my heart: reducing overall crime, fostering trust and legitimacy within the community, and strengthening engagement with the people we are sworn to serve and protect,” Moore wrote. “Together, we achieved meaningful progress, and I am deeply grateful for the collaboration and support of this remarkable community.”

His resignation comes at a bumpy time in the Tacoma Police Department.

Pauli had placed Moore on leave Sept. 26. He was under administrative investigation for allegedly using his city-issued cellphone while on a vacation in Europe, according to city records.

Moore returned to work on Oct. 2.

Just three weeks later, Deputy Chief Paul Junger — the man who stood in for Moore while he was on leave — was placed on paid administrative leave himself.

City spokesperson Maria Lee did not respond to an email seeking comment on Moore’s resignation.

In his letter, Moore thanked Tacoma’s officers “for your unwavering dedication and professionalism.

“Your commitment to excellence and service has been inspiring, and I leave knowing the department is in capable hands, ready to continue making a positive impact,” he wrote.

Moore was chief in December 2023 when three Tacoma officers were tried and acquitted of murder charges in the death of Manny Ellis. He accepted the resignations of the officers following a $1.5 million settlement.

Material from The Seattle Times archives was used in this report.