Roger Chaffin named Calgary’s new police chief

Roger Chaffin will become Calgary’s new chief of police, the city announced in a press conference Tuesday afternoon.

Chaffin is a veteran of the Calgary Police Service who began his service in 1986, and currently heads the Bureau of Organizational Support.

Chaffin’s experience includes time spent in the professional standards section, with the Chief Crowfoot Learning Centre, and as a duty inspector.

“Deputy Chief Chaffin is described by his peers as a thoughtful and outstanding leader and is respected as a mentor and trusted colleague,” said commission chair Rod Fong. “The Police Commission is confident that he will live up to our high expectations and more importantly the expectations of Calgarians.”

Chaffin has received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, Federal Exemplary Service Medal, Alberta Law Enforcement Long Service Medal, Calgary Police Service Distinguished Service Medal and Calgary Police Service Chief’s Award of Excellence. He was also appointed to the Order of Merit for Police Forces last month.

“I’ve very pleased with the appointment of Roger Chaffin as our new chief of police,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi in a statement. “His focus on community policing is exactly the kind of service that builds resilient, strong, and connected communities. I look forward to working with him.”

The appointment takes effect on Oct. 19.

Calgary has been without an official police chief since mid-March when former chief Rick Hanson retired. Since then, Superintendent Paul Cook has been serving as Calgary’s interim chief of police.