After a “demanding” process in the search for the future leader of the Vancouver Police Department, at a press conference at Vancouver City Hall on Thursday evening, a new Chief Constable was named.
Steve Rai, who has been serving as VPD’s interim leader, is the new Vancouver Police Chief Constable.
Vancouver Police Board Chair Frank Chong announced the appointment, and Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim called it an exciting day for the city.
Sim called the process of finding a new chief “rigorous and thoughtful.”
“I am proud to officially announce Steve Rai as the 32nd Chief Constable of the Vancouver Police Department,” Sim said.
VPD’s new Chief Constable Steve Rai/ (LinkedIn)
Rai brings over 30 years of experience with the VPD, and the City of Vancouver says he has worked across “nearly every area of the department.” Rai worked as a frontline officer during the 2010 Winter Olympics and the 2011 Stanley Cup Riot.
“Thank you for your trust and confidence,” Rai said, calling the VPD Canada’s best police department.
Rai also thanked Palmer for the legacy of excellence he left behind, adding that he has really big shoes to fill.
“We live in a world-class city,” Rai said.
“This is a city I proudly grew up in and care deeply about,” Rai added.
The news comes at a time when public safety is at the forefront of Vancouver residents’ minds, particularly following one of the darkest days in the city’s history, the Lapu Lapu tragedy. It also comes almost exactly three months after former chief Adam Palmer announced his retirement.
“With Chief Rai at the helm, Vancouver is in strong hands as we work to build a safer, more connected, and more resilient city,” Sim said.
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