Born and raised in King County, Mitzi Johanknecht has served her community for 33 years and is an experienced, progressive law enforcement leader. She began her law enforcement career when she joined the King County Sheriff’s Office on January 8th, 1985. Through her history of dedication and hard work, along with a strong sense of honor and respect, she worked her way up through the ranks and was elected to the position of Sheriff on November 7, 2017.

Mitzi started as a deputy in the north precinct and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant before having ten years on with the department. A quick 4 years later she was promoted to the rank of Captain. She has served in leadership roles in every division and location in the Sheriff’s Office. As a deputy, she was the first to work with a multi-disciplinary team in King County housing. She collaborated with other agencies, community groups, and residents to build relationships and trust, promoting public safety. Mitzi was the first woman to command TAC‑30, the King County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team.

Mitzi and her wife Maureen live in West Seattle. She volunteers on the board of Companis, a local non‑profit, and does production assistant work for the Seattle Men’s and Women’s Choruses. Their adult daughter Sydni and son in law Scott live in New York City.