LONDON POLICE SERVICES BOARD ANNOUNCES CHIEF'S RETIREMENT
Chief Steve Williams announces retirement from the London Police Service
LONDON, ON (October 18, 2022) – Susan Toth, Chair of the London Police Services Board, announces the retirement of Chief of Police Steve Williams effective May 1, 2023.
“When we hired Chief Williams, we had no idea that he would face global and local issues that would require him to show an unprecedented and extraordinary level of leadership, compassion and integrity. Shortly after he began, he had to immediately demonstrate his commitment, engagement and action on issues of anti-Black racism and equity. Next, he faced a global pandemic, which in turn aggravated a community in crisis due to mental health, addiction and homelessness with inadequate community resources to meet these complex social needs. He dealt with the profound loss, devastation and trauma marked by the attack on the Afzaal family. All the while, Chief Williams showed thoughtfulness, vision, and an unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of the London community and to every member of the London Police Service. His willingness to engage in difficult issues head on, and extensive experience and dedication to his profession will be deeply missed”, says Chair Toth.
Chief Williams is in his 31st year of policing with the London Police Service and his fourth year as Chief of Police. Due to accrued time from his years of service, this announcement will see him finish his last day in office earlier than May 1, on a date yet to be determined. This retirement notice provides the Board with time to engage in a search for Chief Williams’ successor, which the Board will begin in the very near future.
“It has been my privilege and honour to serve our community as a police officer for over 30 years, and as Chief of Police since 2019”, says Chief Williams. “I have profound respect and admiration for each and every member of this service, as they consistently demonstrate professionalism and perseverance despite the enormous demands and expectations placed upon them, particularly over the last several years. I commend them for their sacrifice and service to the citizens of London. I would also like to extend a sincere thank you to members of the London Police Services Board for their confidence and support during my term as Chief as well as the London Police Association Executive who have worked collaboratively with me through difficult issues while always strongly advocating for their members. I am fortunate to have worked with such professionals.”
“On behalf of the current Board, and past Board members who served during Chief Williams’ time of leadership, we thank Chief Williams for his 30 years of valued service, and his exemplary and honourable tenure as Chief of the London Police Service. While this is a loss to the London Police Service, we wish Chief Williams a long, healthy and happy retirement,” says Chair Toth.
Members of the London Police Services Board
The London Police Services Board is the civilian body responsible for governing the London Police Service. It is responsible for the provision of adequate and effective police services to the City of London’s population of approximately 422,000.
Susan Toth, Chair
Ali Chahbar, Vice Chair
Nancy Branscombe, Member
Councillor Maureen Cassidy, Member
Councillor Jesse Helmer, Member
Mayor Ed Holder, Member
Megan Walker, Member
For additional information, contact Jennifer Foster, Administrator, London Police Services Board at (519) 661-5646 or by e-mail at lpsb@londonpolice.ca