Redmond Police Lieutenant April Huey to lead Oregon’s women in criminal justice organization

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) Lieutenant April Huey of the Redmond Police Department has been elected as the first President of the Oregon Association for Women in Criminal Justice, an organization formed in March 2026. This new association is dedicated to supporting women working within Oregon's criminal justice system.

The Oregon Association for Women in Criminal Justice (OAWCJ) was established as a Special Chapter of the Oregon Peace Officers Association. Its mission is to support, empower and connect women in the state's criminal justice system through mentorship, professional development, networking, recruitment and training opportunities. The OAWCJ aims to foster leadership, collaboration and resilience while promoting excellence within the profession.

Lieutenant Huey has served with the Redmond Police Department since 2003. She was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in 2022, becoming the first female Lieutenant in the department's history. The values of the OAWCJ align directly with Lt. Huey's leadership style.

In 2022, Lt. Huey started Central Oregon Women in Law Enforcement (COWIL), a non-profit organization. COWIL focuses on mentoring, supporting and inspiring current and future women in law enforcement across Central Oregon. She currently also serves as President of COWIL.

Police Chief Devin Lewis for the Redmond Police Department, expressed support for Lt. Huey's new role. "RPD is proud to have Lt. Huey serving as President of OAWCJ and looks forward to supporting her and the association as they inspire women in law enforcement," Lewis said.