Police History

History of the Airway Heights Police Department

In 1953, Land developer Carl Lundstrom, president of Rocket Investment Company, announced plans to incorporate one square mile west of Spokane into the City of Airway Heights. At the time, the area had about 400 residents, a service station, cafe, furniture store, barber shop, and a lumber yard.

On April 19, 1955 residents voted 50 – 8 to incorporate. Lundstrom was elected as the first mayor of Airway Heights.

On September 24, 1956, the Airway Heights City Council approved the position of Town Marshal. L.A. “Red” George was appointed to the position, becoming the first law enforcement officer in the City of Airway Heights. Marshal George was initially paid $50 a month for his services.

An Airway Heights police cruiser.

Marshals and Chiefs Over the Years

Marshal L.A. “Red” George   

1956 – 1957     

Marshal H.D. Smith                

1957 – 1958

Marshal Jim Meadows

1958 – 1975

Marshal Bob Evans                

1975 – 1983

Chief  Wayne Odum               

1983 – 1984 

Chief Jim Nettles                    

1984 – 2003

Chief Lee Bennett

2003 – 2020

Chief Brad Richmond                 

2020 – Present

Airway Heights Badge History

A Deputy Marshal star-shaped badge.
A Blurry image of a gold-plated Police badge.
Police Department Patch in the light.
Metal Police Department Patch for Airway Heights.

Airway Heights Shoulder History

Police Department Patch for 1980 - 1983.

1980 - 1983

Police Department Patch for 1983 - 1984.

1983 - 1984

Police Department Patch for 1984 - 2004.

1984 - 2004

Police Department Patch for Airway Heights.

1984 - 2004