Police commission to present Edmonton chief selection to city council

An Edmonton Police Service shoulder badge in Edmonton on Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson

After several months of searching for a candidate, the Edmonton Police Commission will be presenting its selection for the city’s new chief to council for approval on Friday.

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The top position with Edmonton police opened in February after former chief Dale McFee resigned. He later took a job with the provincial government as deputy minister of executive council and head of the Alberta Public Service.

Two interim chiefs – Devin Laforce and Warren Driechel, who have been with the service for nearly three decades – served in McFee’s place while the commission conducted its search for a permanent head.

Once the commission has selected a candidate, the Police Act requires city council to ratify the board’s choice.

Commission chair Ben Henderson will introduce the 24th chief of the Edmonton Police Service at city hall after the council meeting.