Moose Jaw Police Service announces new chief

The Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS) has revealed its new chief, Robert Davis.

The Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS) has named Robert Davis as its new chief.

Davis comes to the province from Brantford, Ont. where he served as the chief of that city’s police service. Before that, he served as the chief of Lethbridge’s police service from 2015 to 2019.

Overall, Davis boasts 34 years of law enforcement experience. He’s served in communities right across Canada, according to MJPS.

The announcement was made Monday, at the city’s council chambers.

“Chief Robert Davis stood out as a leader who understands the importance of building relationships and leading with both compassion and foresight,” Mayor James Murdock said in the announcement.

“We are confident in the innovative, responsive leadership he will bring to help ensure a safe and vibrant community.”

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Davis did not answer any questions from the media, but did provide a statement, as the city said the incoming chief will have the opportunity to answer questions during his official swearing in ceremony in September.

“I want to reaffirm my commitment to the department, to building new relationships and listening to the voices of the community,” Davis said during the announcement. “I’m also dedicated to working collaboratively to help ensure that Moose Jaw remains a safe, welcoming place for all.”

Davis will formally be sworn in and begin his duties on Aug. 29. He takes over the role from acting chief Rick Johns.

In response to questions about Davis’s departure from Lethbridge, Alta. in 2019, Murdock said the vetting process included speaking to representatives from all of the incoming chief’s previous workplaces.

“Through the vetting process, everything was completely discussed and talked about, and it’s important to remember there may be a story that follows an individual or a person, but there’s also very good ones too,” Murdock said.

“Those communiques were held with personnel from Lethbridge and we felt very comfortable with the feedback that we were getting.”

The appointment of a new permanent chief marks the first change in leadership at the service in over a decade.

Rick Bourassa had served in the service’s top job since 2013 before retiring in February.