(The Center Square) – Former Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes has moved to the private sector, joining MissionRT, a firm that develops camera surveillance systems for public safety organizations.
In an announcement shared on LinkedIn on Oct. 5, Barnes said he now leads the company’s public safety programs and strategy division.
Barnes had resigned as Seattle Police Chief in late July following backlash over how the city managed the fatal shooting on July 26 at the Bite of Seattle festival.
Barnes said in the post that his work at MissionRT will focus on guiding state and municipal public safety departments in evaluating tech tools, training personnel for deployment, and aligning tech choices with community requirements.
He said he will also offer strategic guidance to police chiefs and executive command staff as they assess the company’s offerings.
In Seattle, Barnes was a strong supporter of the city’s surveillance camera program, connected to the RealTime Crime Center and monitored by police officers.
However, Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson put the program’s expansion on hold in March. That expansion was approved by former mayor Bruce Harrell and the City Council in 2025.
The City of Seattle does not use cameras manufactured by Mission RT.
Reflecting on the decision, Barnes noted that establishing that connection influenced his choice to step into the role of Head of Public Safety Programs and Strategy. He said he intends to draw on his background as an educator, officer, and chief to support a broader network of emergency responders and leaders.
He said that although his operating environment has shifted, his dedication to serving the public remains unchanged.
Barnes said in his remarks that successful technology implementation requires thorough instruction, transparent policy frameworks, and open dialogue with the public about how these surveillance systems operate.
Ultimately, he said his goal in this new role is to help agencies strengthen their overall preparedness, operational success, and oversight.
MissionRT did not return requests for comment.
The company features Barnes in his Seattle police uniform on its website, but mentions nothing of his resignation from the Seattle position.