Peel Names Fifth Chief in its History

( BRAMPTON )– Deputy Chief Michael Metcalf, a 35-year veteran of the Peel Regional Police, has been selected to serve as the fifth Chief of Police for the Peel Regional Police, says Emil Kolb, Chair, Regional Municipality of Peel Police Services Board. The appointment takes effect on January 1, 2006, the day after the retirement of the current Chief, Noel Catney.

“The Board is extremely pleased to have Chief Designate Metcalf, with his experience, depth of knowledge and passion to lead the Peel Regional Police,” says Mr. Kolb. “The fact that he is a long-serving member is an additional benefit as he has seen our police service and community grow and has proven himself an adept leader in meeting the challenges of that growth.”

Mr. Kolb says that Chief Designate Metcalf was the unanimous choice. However, the Board noted the calibre of all the candidates, reflecting the merits of the succession plan process put into place by Chief Catney.

“I am proud and honoured to have the opportunity to serve as Chief of Police for the Peel Regional Police,” says Chief Designate Metcalf. “I am committed to maintaining a highly professional, ethical and effective police service. I am also committed to continuing the good work of Chief Catney in partnering with our many neighbourhood and ethnic groups in building a safer community.”

“I especially want to acknowledge and recognize all the members of the Peel Regional Police for the outstanding work they do. As Chief, I could not ask to work with a finer group of people.”

Mr. Kolb says Chief Designate Metcalf commenced his career as a police officer in January, 1971. Among other assignments, he has worked as Officer-in-Charge of the Criminal Identification Bureau, O-I-C Morality Bureau, Superintendent, 21 Division, Staff Superintendent, Field Operations and Deputy Chief, Operations. He is the recipient of numerous awards and commendations, including the ‘Thirty-Year Exemplary Service Award’; ‘Queen’s Gold Jubilee Medal', and the ‘Francis Xavier Fernandes Memorial Award’ for outstanding achievement in the field of criminal identification.

The Peel Regional Police is the second largest municipal police service in Ontario with 1678 uniform members and 635 civilian members. Formed in 1974, it provides policing services to the cities of Brampton and Mississauga, and, under contract, to the Pearson International Airport.

For further information: Frederick Biro, Executive Director 905-458-1340.