Sudbury Appoints Sara Cunningham as New Chief of Police

Sara Cunningham has been appointed as the new chief of police for Greater Sudbury, succeeding Paul Pederson, who departed in June to take on the role of executive director at the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police. Cunningham, who previously served as deputy chief, brings over 26 years of experience within the police service to her new position.

In a news release issued on Friday, Al Sizer, chair of the police board, expressed confidence in Cunningham’s capabilities. “Deputy Chief Cunningham’s 26 years with the service has made her well-equipped to assume this position. She has served with pride, distinction and excellence, and brings vast experience to the role,” Sizer stated.

Cunningham has held various roles within the police service, including operations and administrative deputy chief over the past three years. “I am incredibly honoured that the board has selected me to serve as the next chief of police,” she remarked in the release. “Greater Sudbury has always been home, and for the past 26 years, GSPS has been a part of my family.”

Cunningham’s Commitment to Community
Cunningham emphasized her dedication to the health and wellness of police members and her commitment to innovative policing practices. She aims to effectively deploy resources while engaging with the diverse communities served by the Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS). Her previous role as deputy chief of administration involved overseeing human resources, professional development, finance, communication and information technology, and information management.

The release highlighted several notable initiatives she spearheaded, including inclusive recruitment strategies, preparations for the integration of Next Generation 911, and transitioning the police service to a two-year budget cycle to ensure fiscal prudence.

Cunningham holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Laurentian University and is a graduate of the University of Toronto Rotman School of Management Police Leadership Program. Her accolades include the Governor General Exemplary Service 20-year medal and the Order of Merit of Police Services. She is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police, the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police, and the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

Cunningham is also committed to strengthening community partnerships, focusing on support for individuals facing homelessness, mental health challenges, and addictions while addressing overall community safety and wellness.

In the announcement, Al Sizer expressed gratitude for the service of former Chief Pederson, saying, “We thank former Chief Pedersen for his many years of dedicated service and continue to wish him the very best in his new role at the OACP.” He also recognized the valuable contributions of Deputy Chief Hiltz and Cunningham, who shared the role of acting chief during the recruitment process.

Cunningham is set to officially begin her role on September 23, 2023. Further details regarding the swearing-in ceremony and the selection process for a new deputy chief of police will be released in the near future.