Mark Bensen appointed as chief of police for Nez Perce Tribe

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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. Bensen began his service for the Nez Perce Tribe on Nov. 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,” said Shannon F. Wheeler, NPTEC chairman. 

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, Bensen worked in various  roles and divisions, including patrol, traffic enforcement, criminal investigations and the  administrative unit.  

Bensen, a Marine Corps veteran, is a graduate of Moscow High School. He earned a Bachelor of Science in criminology from the University of Idaho as well as a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Science in organizational leadership. 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 onboard and confident in his ability to lead the Nez Perce Tribe Police Department in fulfilling its duty to provide safety for our communities,” said Chairman Wheeler.