New Deputy Chief Appointed to Owen Sound Police Service

UPDATE: The Owen Sound Police Service has officially appointed Dave Bishop as its new deputy chief, a move that promises to enhance public safety in the community. Bishop, a veteran with 39 years of policing experience, began his role on Monday, bringing a wealth of expertise from both the Waterloo and Owen Sound police services.

Bishop’s impressive career began in 1986 with the Waterloo Regional Police Service, where he has held various roles in patrol operations, tactical units, and drug investigations. Notably, he served as a human rights and war crimes investigator with the United Nations in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1997. Most recently, he joined the Owen Sound Police Service as an inspector in 2019.

This appointment comes at a critical time for the Owen Sound Police, as the Community Safety and Policing Act enacted in April 2024 introduced new reporting requirements, necessitating the reinstatement of the deputy chief position for the first time since 2007. The Owen Sound Police Service had been operating with only two inspectors since then.

In a statement, OSPS Board Chair John Thomson expressed enthusiasm for Bishop’s appointment, saying, “The Owen Sound Police Service Board looks forward to Deputy Police Chief Bishop’s continued commitment to public safety and professional excellence.”

Bishop’s extensive experience in supervisory roles and strong leadership will be pivotal as he steps into this crucial position. His recognition as a Member of the Order of Merit underscores his dedication to the policing profession in Canada.

Additionally, the Owen Sound Police Service recently welcomed Inspector Tony Doherty from the Peel Regional Police, further strengthening the force’s leadership team.

As the Owen Sound community anticipates positive changes under Bishop’s leadership, this appointment marks a significant step forward in enhancing public safety and maintaining trust within the community.

Stay tuned for more updates as developments unfold within the Owen Sound Police Service.