Letter from the Editor

The last few months in the policing community have been difficult. I understand how hard the deaths of these officers hit all of you – hit all of us, now that I’m part of this community, too.

As much as I enjoy working on this magazine and getting to know our members in the process, this one was tough. The cover was tough. But at the same time, I think it’s a beautiful tribute to the members we lost. It’s sombre and solemn, while at the same time, beautiful and emotional. No words are required.

I want to also note the tragic death of Cst. Drew Nadeau of the Ottawa Police Service, who was killed in a car accident on his way home from work shortly before this magazine went to press. His death is no less difficult to process. Our condolences go out to the OPS, the Ottawa Police Association and Cst. Nadeau’s friends, family and colleagues.

I hope you will take the time to read the feature article on page 28 about the officers who died tragically this fall and the impact these events have had on our members.

On page 34, read about the province’s staffing crisis and, on page 40, learn about how Ryan Harrison from the York Regional Police started a Resiliency Support Group for Accommodated Members after his own difficulties.

In our Member Spotlight on page 16, get to know the North Bay Police Association, and on page 20, gain some insight into Peel Police’s Cst. Judith Solomon, who was named Ontario Women in Law Enforcement’s Officer of the Year in 2022.

Finally, on page 24, learn a little bit about what makes civilian member Tim Morrison of the Durham Police Association such a great advocate for his members.

As always, if you have any feedback or story ideas, please contact me at lauren.alpern@pao.ca.

Happy holidays and stay safe.

Lauren Alpern Editor

If you want The Dispatch sent directly to your home, please contact communications@pao.ca with your mailing address. Similarly, if you want to be removed from our mailing list, please let us know.