As of this writing, Andy J. Hwang is in his 37th year of public law enforcement service, all in the state of Washington. Federal Way incorporated as a city in 1990. In 1996 the city commissioned its own, brand new police department. Andy became a founding member when he was among the experienced officers first hired from other agencies. He steadily rose through the ranks at Federal Way PD; and in 2014 he become the agency’s fourth – and now the longest serving – chief of police.

During his tenure as police chief the population of Federal Way has grown to over 101,000 residents and FWPD expanded to an authorized strength of 150 officers. Andy’s primary responsibilities include protecting the people of Federal Way and providing resources for the men and women of his diverse department.

Andy’s parents immigrated from South Korea to Olympia, Washington. Andy was blessed with a desire to work hard and prospered academically. He graduated from North Thurston High School, earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice at Saint Martin’s University, and a master’s degree in Organizational Management.

Andy enjoys sports. In high school he was a wrestler, played baseball and football. Andy was the co-captain of the varsity baseball team. Now he skis for fun and runs for exercise.

At 20 years old the Olympia Police Department hired Andy as a police cadet. After two years, Olympia PD hired Andy as a full-time police officer. With this position came the most money any person in Andy’s family had ever made. It was his springboard to living the American dream.

The last few years have brought considerable challenges to police chiefs. Dealing with the COVID pandemic, legislated de-policing in Washington, problems associated with homelessness and an accelerated drug culture have highlighted Andy’s character, capabilities and charisma. He demonstrates his commitment to this community and to public safety every day, as he has done throughout his career.

“As others seek to change our procedures in policing, it is important to get the balance right for the community. We must thoughtfully ensure the proposed solutions don’t make problems worse.” As Chief Hwang adapts to the ever-changing landscape of policing in America, he does so with integrity and a mindset to pro-actively provide safety for the people he swore to serve.

Chief Hwang lives in Federal Way with his wife, Jia, his daughter, Faith, and his son Andrew