NAACP says city made good decision
When Vancouver announced the selection of a new police chief Wednesday, it came with the endorsement from a longtime civil rights organization on the front lines of advocating for police reforms, the Vancouver NAACP.
City officials say Chief Jeffrey Mori will bring 29 years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience to the position, including nine years as undersheriff for Washington County in Oregon and most recently three years as assistant chief for the Vancouver Police Department.
Jeffrey Mori
“The NAACP is proud of the decision the city made. Jeff Mori has shown consistent commitment in navigating difficult and systematic issues within our community,” said Vancouver NAACP President Jasmine Tolbert. “Jeff has a healthy commitment to racial equity, and we hope to continue to partner with him on that journey. Ultimately the NAACP of Vancouver is here to hold the Vancouver Police Department accountable, but we are excited to work with Jeff.”
Mori holds a bachelor’s degree from Oregon State University and is working toward his master’s in Public Safety from University of Virginia (projected 2023).
Vancouver City Manager Eric Holmes said Mori’s experience and background, teamed with his proven ability to build and maintain meaningful relationships in the community, has prepared him well for the job.
“His clear vision for the future of community safety in Vancouver helped him emerge as the top candidate in a very competitive pool. I am confident in his ability to lead our Police Department in its next chapter,” Holmes said.
In prepared remarks, Mori gave thanks to the men and women who show up each day to do the work to keep our community safe.
“I look forward to leading the Vancouver Police Department in our continued efforts to expand community partnerships and relationships, grow the agency and increase transparency and trust,” he said.