Kingston’s New Police Chief Promises Modernization and Transparency

On March 14, 2024, the city of Kingston welcomed a new era in law enforcement with the swearing-in of Chief Adam MacIntosh. The ceremony took place at the Superior Court of Justice, where MacIntosh outlined his vision for a more modern and transparent police service. His commitment to adapting the Kingston Police to meet the evolving needs of the community was evident from the start.

MacIntosh emphasized the necessity of modernization, stating, “I was pretty clear about how we need to modernize as a service.” A significant component of this modernization plan includes the implementation of body-worn cameras for officers. He confirmed that a pilot project is already in development, highlighting the technology’s role in fostering public trust. “Transparency is paramount,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of community confidence in the police force.

Focus on Officer Well-being

In addition to technological advancements, Chief MacIntosh is prioritizing the mental health of his officers. He acknowledged the increasing number of personnel taking leave due to operational stress and trauma, stressing that a healthy workforce is vital for effective public safety. “We cannot serve the community if we’re losing officers to some of the trauma and operational stress they’re experiencing,” MacIntosh said. His approach aims to ensure that officers receive the support they need to maintain their well-being, both on and off duty.

With decades of experience, including a notable tenure as a lead investigator in high-profile criminal cases in British Columbia, MacIntosh brings a wealth of knowledge to his role. Wendy Stephen Casey, a retired Crown counsel who collaborated with him on several significant cases, praised his leadership style. “He was my witness on two or three murder trials. He was an interrogator of an accused person who gave a confession,” she noted. Casey described MacIntosh as a “people person” who embodies accountability in leadership.

Aiming for Community Engagement

Despite the challenges that lie ahead, MacIntosh expressed a straightforward ambition for his tenure. “I’d like to help support Kingston remain one of the best police services and be extremely boring,” he said, suggesting that a lack of incidents would indicate effective policing. His light-hearted yet meaningful statement reflects a commitment to community safety through proactive measures.

As Kingston embarks on this new chapter under Chief MacIntosh’s leadership, the community can anticipate a police service that prioritizes modernization, transparency, and the well-being of its officers. With a focus on building trust and enhancing officer support, Kingston Police aims to adapt to the changing landscape of law enforcement in the 21st century.

— With files from Global News’ Jesse Reynolds