Vancouver Police Chief Jim Chu, the first non-white officer to lead the Vancouver force, announced Friday that he will retire in the spring. Two senior VPD officers Doug Lepard and Adam Palmer are in line to succeed Chu if Vancouver mayor Gregor Robertson and the Police Board decides to keep the replacement from within the force.
VANCOUVER – Vancouver police chief Jim Chu announced Friday that he will retire in the spring.
Chu, who has been with the force for 36 years, was named the department’s top cop in August 2007. He first joined the force in 1979 and served in roles such as patrol officer, school liaison, and detective, reported Globe and Mail newspaper.
In a tweet announcing his retirement, Chief Chu thanked community supporters, partners and VPD staff.
Chief Chu, the first non-white officer to lead the Vancouver force, has largely remained out of the spotlight in recent years.
His time at the department’s helm has not been entirely without controversy, though. The force was heavily criticized for its response to the 2011 Stanley Cup riot.
Chief Chu’s name was mentioned as a possible mayoral candidate leading up to last year’s civic election, though he denied he had any interest.
His contract with the department was extended last March. He had been expected to remain as chief until at least August 2017.
Two senior VPD officers Doug Lepard and Adam Palmer are in line to succeed Chu if Vancouver mayor Gregor Robertson and the Police Board decides to keep the replacement from within the force.
