Thursday, March 28, 2024

Greater Victoria will soon see its first-ever female deputy police chief

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The Oak Bay Police Department (OBPD) is marking a significant milestone in its announcement of a new deputy chief of police.

Sgt. Julie Chanin has been selected as the detachment’s next deputy chief constable, becoming the first female to hold the position in Greater Victoria.

She’ll be assuming the role from current Deputy Chief Const. Mark Fisher, who’s replacing outgoing Chief Const. Ray Bernoties this summer.

“It’s such an honour and privilege to take on this role but still get to work with this amazing team in this incredible community,” said Chanin.

A 22-year veteran in policing, Chanin joined the OBPD as a constable from West Shore RCMP in 2011, serving as an acting sergeant and sergeant in subsequent years.

“In that time, Chanin has demonstrated clear professional excellence as well as a firm commitment to best practices in community policing,” states a press release.

Const. Fisher is thrilled Chanin will be filling his shoes, calling her dedication to the community “remarkable.”

“She is the type of progressive and engaged leader that will continue to move our department forward. There is no doubt in my mind that the department and the community will be well served by having her in this leadership role,” said Fisher.

According to the OBPD, Chanin is also the first internal candidate promoted to leadership in over a decade. The detachment says people from across Canada applied for the job, noting an “extensive” interview and evaluation process ensued.

“Sgt. Chanin cares deeply about this community and OBPD employees,” added Chief Bernoties. 

“I’m excited for her and thrilled for OBPD. She is exactly the kind of person anyone would want in charge of their police department.”

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