Mark Bensen Appointed as Chief of Police for Nez Perce Tribe

Lapwai, Idaho- The Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee (NPTEC) has appointed Mark
Bensen as the new Chief of Police for the Nez Perce Tribal Police Department. Mr. Bensen
began his service for the Nez Perce Tribe on November 1.

“We are excited to welcome Chief Bensen back to Nez Perce Country. Chief Bensen brings with him a wealth of knowledge, experience, and education that will be invaluable in this role,” stated Shannon F. Wheeler, NPTEC Chairman.

Mr. Bensen’s lengthy career includes service as a marine deputy for Clearwater County, patrol
deputy and detective for Latah County, and over 22 years of service with the Federal Way Police Department in Washington State. During his time at Federal Way, Mr. Bensen worked in various roles and divisions, including patrol, traffic enforcement, criminal investigations, and the administrative unit.

Mr. Bensen, a Marine Corps Veteran, is a graduate of Moscow High School. He earned a
Bachelor of Science in Criminology degree from the University of Idaho as well as a Master of
Business Administration degree and a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership degree.
Mr. Bensen has received various awards throughout his career, most recently the Trilogy Award from the FBI-Law Enforcement Executive Development Association for successfully completing the FBI’s Supervisor Leadership Institute, Command Leadership Institute, and Executive Leadership Institute.

“We are pleased to have him on board and confident in his ability to lead the Nez Perce Tribe
Police Department in fulfilling its duty to provide safety for our communities,” concluded
Chairman Wheeler