“Yelm Police Officer Don Moody, after pulling over driver Elaine Kirkwood for not using a turn signal,
gives her $100 instead of a ticket, a local “Secret Santa” giveaway of $5,000, December 2014.″
Photo credit: Steven Wyble, Nisqually Valley News

– Officer Don Moody has been confirmed as Tenino’s new Chief of Police
As reported here April 7, 2006:
“Don Moody of the Yelm Police Department Awaiting Final Approval Before To Take Over as Tenino Police Chief”


– From Councilor Joe DePinto’s Facebook post (used with permission):
“Yesterday [Fri., May 6] I sat on the oral board for the City of Yelm lateral police officer examination (lateral meaning an officer from another city). I was honored to be asked to sit alongside two of our officers, a sheriff deputy, fellow councilmen (sic) Stillwell, and a local business owner to help decide who is to replace our outgoing Officer Moody. Great experience and I’m able to say we had some great candidates.

Then later in the evening I attended officer Moody’s farewell party that the police guild threw for him. Besides burning my mouth on Detective Devore’s hot wings, I had a wonderful time with Yelm’s finest. I’m sad to lose officer Moody, but I’m happy for him and wish him the best as Tenino’s new Chief of Police.”


– Editor’s note:
Congratulations to Chief Moody on his appointment. With his wealth of experience to replace, the City of Yelm has work to do to bring Chief Stancil’s team up to staffing levels more consistent with providing Public Safety for a city of almost 10,000 residents. They are stretched way too thin and have no depth of coverage.


– UPDATE: May 12, 2016
“Tenino Police Chief Takes the Helm”
“Position Filled: Don Moody Sworn In and Excited for Duty”
By Jordan Nailon, The Chronicle (Centralia).
Read more