Vancouver's Police Chief Announces His Retirement

Vancouver’s longstanding police chief made a surprise move on Friday and announced his retirement after 36 years with the Vancouver Police Department (VPD).

Chief Constable Jim Chu, 56, addressed the media where he was thanked by Vancouver Mayor and Police Board Chair Gregor Robertson for his service.

“After 36 years in policing with the VPD, seven-and-a-half of those years as Chief Constable, I believe now is the right time for me to move on to other challenges in life,” said Chu. “It has been a distinct honour and pleasure to serve with hundreds of talented and committed women and men (sworn, civilian and volunteer) over those years. What we have accomplished together and the good times we often had while doing it form the basis of my fondest memories. In these last seven-plus years, I have been fortunate to lead an organization comprised of amazing people who, working together, have created a safer city. Our police department enjoys tremendous community support and is known internationally for our innovation, expertise, and community partnerships.”

Announcing my retirement after 36 yrs as @VancouverPD officer and 7.5 yrs as Chief. Thanks to community supporters, partners & VPD staff.

— Jim Chu (@ChiefJimChu) January 23, 2015

Since beginning his tenure with the VPD as Chief Constable, Chu has seen a significant decrease in the crime rate over the years.

Photo Credit: VPD Handout

“I have had the privilege to work with Chief Chu both as Mayor and as Chair of the Police Board, and he and his team have succeeded time and again in making Vancouver a safer city,” said Mayor Gregor Robertson. “Whether it was crucial work on the tragedy of Missing and Murdered Women, combatting a gang war in 2008 and 2009, safely welcoming the world for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games, or his national leadership as President of the Canadian Association of Police Chiefs, Jim’s vision and expertise have contributed immensely to making Vancouver an even better place in which to live, work, or visit. The Chief has Vancouver’s deepest thanks for his exemplary service and his dedication to the safety and betterment of our city.”

Photo Credit: VPD Handout

The search is now on for Chu’s replacement, and he will stay in the Chief position until a successor has been chosen. The VPD hopes to fill the position by late May.

Photo Credit: VPD Handout