After a six-year transition, the Surrey Police Service has officially taken over from the RCMP as the city’s primary law enforcement agency, marking a new chapter in community policing.
In a significant development for British Columbia’s second-largest city, the Surrey Police Service (SPS) has officially assumed policing responsibilities from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) as of November 29, 2024. This transition marks the culmination of a six-year journey initiated in 2018 by then-Mayor Doug McCallum, who advocated for a locally governed police force to better address Surrey’s unique needs. Despite facing political opposition, legal challenges, and public debates, the transition was finalized with a formal change-of-command ceremony attended by key figures, including Chief Constable Norm Lipinski, BC RCMP Commanding Officer Dwayne McDonald, and current Mayor Brenda Locke.
Chief Constable Norm Lipinski brings over 45 years of policing experience to his role, having previously served as Deputy Chief in both the Delta and Edmonton Police Services, as well as Assistant Commissioner in the RCMP. His extensive background positions him well to lead the SPS through this transformative period. Under his leadership, the SPS has already deployed over 500 sworn officers, focusing their efforts in neighborhoods like Whalley and Newton. Plans are underway to expand coverage to South Surrey in the coming year, with the goal of fully staffing the force within the next two to three years. During this interim period, the RCMP will continue to provide support to ensure a seamless transition and maintain public safety.
The journey to establish the SPS was not without controversy. Mayor Brenda Locke, who succeeded McCallum in 2022, campaigned on a platform to retain the RCMP, leading to a series of political and legal confrontations with provincial authorities. Despite these challenges, the provincial government mandated the continuation of the transition, emphasizing the importance of a community-led policing model. At the recent ceremony, Mayor Locke acknowledged the contentious path but expressed a commitment to moving forward collaboratively to ensure the success of the SPS.
The establishment of the Surrey Police Service represents a significant shift in the city’s approach to law enforcement, emphasizing local governance, community engagement, and tailored policing strategies. As the SPS continues to grow and integrate into all areas of Surrey, residents can expect a focus on proactive policing and increased accountability. This transition not only marks the end of a prolonged political saga but also the beginning of a new era in public safety for the city.
