New assistant police chief brings proven leadership to Lakewood Police - LKW

( from the Lakewood Connections magazine, Fall 2026 )

“David Claridge brings more than 25 years of years of law enforcement experience and a lifelong commitment to public service to the Lakewood Police Department. He began his career with the Thurston County Sheriff's Office, where he served for 22 years in a variety of assignments and leadership roles. Claridge later joined the Fife Police Department, serving nearly four years as assistant chief of police before continuing his career with the Lakewood Police Department.

Claridge's connection to the South Sound runs deep. He grew up in Tacoma and graduated from Lincoln High School, while also spending considerable time in Lakewood, where his grandparents lived for many years. His memories of the community include visits to longtime local landmarks such as B&I and the Star Lite swap meet. Those early connections have given him a genuine appreciation for Lakewood, its history and the people who make its history and the people who make the city home. Claridge earned his bachelor's degree in exercise science from the University of Utah and his master's degree in public safety from Liberty University.

Claridge and his wife, Trisha, celebrated 30 years of marriage this year and are the proud parents of two adult sons, Jordan, 25, and Devin, 23, and their daughter-in-law, Taylor. Their sons and daughter-in-law live in Utah, and despite the distance, family remains one of the most important parts of Claridge's life.

Outside of work, Claridge enjoys staying active, whether in the gym, outdoors or on the football field. After many years of coaching youth and high school sports, he continues his involvement as a youth and high school football official. While most of his games have traditionally been in Thurston County, where he lives, he hopes you might also see him under the Friday night lights at Clover Park or Lakes, or during the week for a sub-varsity game.

Throughout his career, Claridge has developed a passion for public safety that extends beyond the traditional policing. He believes strongly in building meaningful relationships with community members, particularly young people. His experiences in coaching and sports have reinforced his belief that connecting with youth, serving as a positive role model, and simply being present can have a lasting impact.

For Claridge, public safety is ultimately about people, relationships and making a difference in the community he serves.”