Burlington has an interim police chief to replace Jon Murad, who announced his resignation last year.

South Burlington Chief Shawn Burke has submitted his resignation as Police Chief for the City of South Burlington effective March 21. This resignation comes as he accepts the position of Interim Police Chief for the City of Burlington.

“I am deeply saddened to accept Chief Burke’s resignation,” said City Manager Jessie Baker in a SoBu press release. “Chief Burke exemplifies the best of modern progressive policing. His professionalism, respect for all, and adherence to exceptional police practices to hold the trust of all in the community have served the City of South Burlington well.”

She added, “I’m proud that we can support our neighbors in the City of Burlington as they focus on their public safety and security practices. A strong and safe Burlington will benefit all of Chittenden County and the State of Vermont. I’m confident that Chief Burke is the leader who can guide them through this change.”

Chief Burke joined the City of South Burlington in July 2018 and took over as Chief of Police in 2019 when Chief Trevor Whipple retired. Before his South Burlington experience, Chief Burke served the City of Burlington for 21 years, leaving as the Deputy Chief of Operations.

Under Chief Burke’s leadership in South Burlington, the Police Department focused on instituting policies and practices aligned to the 21st Century Policing standards. He led efforts to fully integrate community justice practices and the Community Outreach Team (Howard Center-employed caseworkers embedded with the Police Department) into the day-to-day operations of the department to ensure our residents receive the best care as early as possible. And he focused on leadership development and succession planning by bringing the best and brightest to the team.

“It has been both an honor and privilege to serve South Burlington,” said Chief Burke. “I am incredibly proud of the work our team has accomplished in advancing 21st Century Policing practices and leadership development. The future of policing in South Burlington is bright. I would like to thank the City Manager and City Council for their unwavering leadership and support over the years. Good public safety is a vital part of growing a vibrant community and our leaders understand this.”

The City will conduct a national search for the next South Burlington Police Chief. In the meantime, Deputy Chief Sean Briscoe will serve as Acting Police Chief effective at the close of shift on March 21, 2025.