Edmonton Police Chief Rod Knecht’s contract not being renewed: sources

He’s been on the job for nearly seven years but Global News has learned Rod Knecht’s term as chief of the Edmonton Police Services is coming to an end.

On Wednesday, sources told Global News Knecht was unable to secure a contract extension. His contract comes to an end on October 31.

Knecht’s current contract was extended in 2013.

Just last month, Knecht told Global News he was “anticipating something any day now” with regard to a contract extension.

“I was hoping it was going to be last month, that’s what I thought it was going to be, but it hasn’t come to fruition yet, so I’m being patient,” Knecht said on April 19.

READ MORE: Edmonton police chief says he’s on the verge of new contract

Watch below: Some videos of Global News’ coverage of stories involving Edmonton Police Chief Rod Knecht.

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• Knecht wants old Edmonton Remand Centre turned into wellness centre

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Last year, Knecht led the Edmonton Police Service in its response to a U-Haul attack in the downtown core. The September vehicle attack left four people injured. Police allege the driver of the U-Haul van was the same person who rammed a car into Const. Michael Chernyk before trying to stab him outside Commonwealth Stadium. Chernyk survived the attack.

READ MORE: Edmonton police chief to share U-Haul attack experience with NFL execs

Knecht replaced Mike Boyd as police chief in June 2011. His current contract was extended in 2013.

When speaking with Global News in April, Knecht said even though he was anticipating a contract extension, he was also wanting to move on with a succession plan.

Knecht also said while he’s accomplished much of what he wanted to as police chief, he had more work he wants to finish.

Global News has attempted to reach out to Knecht and the Edmonton Police Commission for comment on his contract not being renewed.

-With files from 630 CHED’s Scott Johnston and Global News’ Kendra Slugoski