City bids farewell to longtime Lacey Police Department Commander Jim Mack after 35 years of service 

The Lacey City Council honored retiring Lacey Police Department Commander Jim Mack on Tuesday, May 6, with a formal commendation recognizing his 35 years of dedicated service to the community. 

Mack began his career with the Lacey Police Department (LPD) in 1989 as a community service officer and reserve police officer.  

He became a full-time officer in May 1991 and steadily advanced through the ranks, serving in critical roles, including gang officer, school resource officer and detective lieutenant.  

He was promoted to commander in 2011, where he led both the Investigations and Operations divisions. 

“(He) was dedicated to building community relationships while ensuring full transparency in the delivery of law enforcement service,” Lacey Deputy Mayor Malcolm Miller stated while reading the commendation. 

“He worked unselfishly completing all his job assignments with enthusiasm and honor,” he added. 

Colleagues praised Mack’s leadership and mentorship.  

“Jim has been such an asset to the department … and an absolute treasure,” said LPD Chief Robert Almada. “It is hard to see you go.” 

Council members also noted Mack’s impact on younger officers, many of whom credited him with shaping their careers.  

“There have been so many of them that have said that Commander Mack mentored them,” Miller said.  

Mack, joined by his wife at the ceremony, expressed gratitude to his family and the city.  

“I couldn’t have done it without my family’s support. The City of Lacey has been a great place to grow and to watch the community grow,” Mack said. 

“I feel really good retiring because I know you're in great hands with Chief Almada and I look forward to all the great things that you guys are going to do in the future,” he added.