Surrey Police Take Over From RCMP After Six-Year Saga, Ex-Mayor Expresses No Regrets
The Surrey Police Service officially took over from the RCMP to become the city’s primary law enforcement agency on Friday, concluding a six-year process initiated by former mayor Doug McCallum.
Despite various challenges, changes in local government, and allegations of bullying, McCallum stands by the transition and believes it was necessary for the community of Surrey.
He expressed a desire for an earlier completion of the transition, emphasizing the need for more local control and a modern approach to policing focused on proactive community engagement.
Since 2021, Surrey Police Service officers have been working alongside the RCMP, but now they will assume the leading role with continued support from the Mounties until the process is finalized.
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In 2018, McCallum introduced the idea of a municipal police force during his second term as mayor. However, his successor Brenda Locke, who opposed the transition, encountered resistance from former public safety minister Mike Farnworth.
Locke criticized Farnworth for his handling of the situation, accusing him of bullying and misogyny. Despite legal challenges, Farnworth ultimately mandated the shift to the Surrey Police Service, leading to the city’s acceptance of the decision.
Norm Lipinski, the chief constable of the Surrey Police Service, stated that the complete transition away from the RCMP will take more time, with the municipal force gradually assuming more responsibilities over the next year or two.
Lipinski highlighted the Surrey Police Service’s expanded duties in specific neighborhoods and citywide programs, accounting for a significant portion of the city’s policing workload.
As the transition progresses, the RCMP will continue covering remaining areas in Surrey until additional municipal officers are recruited and trained.
Lipinski also revealed plans to extend police coverage to South Surrey in the coming year, maintaining continuity in essential services and infrastructure.
Amidst visible changes in policing operations, McCallum emphasized the positive impact of increased community engagement and visible police presence in Surrey.
While a formal change-of-command ceremony is anticipated in the future, current officials are addressing the transition through ongoing communications and collaborations.
