Calgary’s police chief unexpectedly resigns; no reason given in announcement

In a surprise move, Calgary's police chief resigned late Friday afternoon, with no reason given and two years left on his contract.

Calgary’s top cop is stepping down—effective immediately.

Chief Constable Mark Neufeld resigned on Friday, and has been replaced by Katie McLellan as the interim chief.

In a release, Neufeld said he’s honoured to have served Calgarians in the chief’s role for the past six years.

“I wish the rest of the organization nothing but success moving forward,” he said.

“I also want to thank the Calgary Police Commission as well as council for their ongoing support of both the (Calgary Police Service) and myself while I was chief.”

Commission chair Amtul Siddiqui expressed gratitude to Neufeld for his service.

“He helped make great strides throughout his career in improving how police misconduct is addressed and guided the Calgary Police Service through some very tumultuous times,” she said.

“We wish him all the best in his next chapter.”

A specific reason for Neufeld’s resignation was not given on Friday.

Neufeld’s contract was meant to run through 2027.

According to the commission, a search for a new permanent chief is not possible at this time due to significant scheduled events and high service demand.

McLellan, who joined CPS in 1987, will serve in the meantime.

“Our commission fully supports and has full confidence in Chief McLellan,” Siddiqui said.

“We are looking forward to working with her on the issues that matter to Calgarians and challenges facing members of CPS.”

Terry Wong, city councillor and commission member, also provided a statement on Friday, saying, “I would like to offer my sincere appreciation to Mark Neufeld.”

“I look forward to working with Katie McLellan in her new assignment as interim chief constable,” he said.

“I remain confident that Calgary is a safe and secure city during this transition through our great women and men under the great banner of Calgary Police Service.”