After nearly 40 years with the Vancouver Police Department (VPD), Chief Constable Adam Palmer has officially retired, leaving behind a legacy marked by integrity, strong leadership, and dedication to public safety.
Born and raised in Vancouver, Palmer began his policing career in 1987 following studies in business administration at Simon Fraser University and work as a correctional officer. Over the years, he served in diverse roles, including the Jail, Crowd Control Unit, Gang Crime Unit, and the Organized Crime Agency of BC. For 13 years, he patrolled East Vancouver, gaining deep insight into the city’s communities.
Appointed the VPD’s 31st Chief Constable in 2015, Palmer was known for his thoughtful, strategic leadership. He contributed significantly to the department’s Strategic Plan and led a major review of policing operations. His leadership shone during major events like the 2010 Winter Olympics, where he served as venue commander for the Pacific Coliseum.
His distinguished service earned him nine VPD commendations and recognition as Police Officer of the Year. He was also invested as a Member of the Order of Merit of the Police Forces by former Governor General Michaëlle Jean. Beyond policing, Palmer was a passionate advocate for community outreach and youth programs through the Vancouver Police Foundation, helping fund initiatives that support vulnerable populations and build safer communities.
As Chief Palmer enters retirement, we honour his exemplary service and lasting impact on both the department and the city. His leadership and dedication will be remembered for years to come, especially because a number of donors stepped forward to create the Chief Adam Palmer Leadership Award – a $5,000 scholarship given to a graduating VPD Cadet who will attend an accredited Canadian college, university or trade school.
This is the most significant of all the awards available to VPD Cadets. We thank the Chou Foundation, the Diamond Foundation, the Fonteromano Foundation, and dozens of individual donors who generously gave to this fund. It will ensure at least 30 years of the Chief Adam Palmer Leadership Award.
Chief Palmer’s retirement has also inspired reflections and tributes from a wide cross-section of the community—including colleagues, board members, business leaders, and residents—each acknowledging his profound impact on the city and its policing legacy. We are proud to share a small sample of the accolades we recently received:
“I can count on one hand a very few select people whom I regard in the highest esteem and Adam Palmer is one of them. The chief to his core embodies the remarkable qualities of the Vancouver Police Department. He is the true leader of the men and woman of this exceptional organization. Throughout his career his leadership and respect were earned the hard way …by leading from the front. Adam has done just that by his quiet, gentle humble nature and his thoughtful, unbiased and uncompromising commitment to his oath of duty to serve and protect the people of Vancouver. I will always cherish and be grateful for having had the opportunity to learn from you.” — Mark James
“As you leave the VPD, I want to congratulate you for a job extremely well done. Your leadership of the Vancouver Police Department was absolutely superb. Big city policing in 21st century Canada is extremely challenging. The public is ever so demanding of the policing system. As you leave, you need to be proud of your leadership and your legacy. As you move forward and meet the challenges that you will no doubt face in the future, I want you to know that I will always cherish our friendship.” — Wally Oppal
“To the best, Chief Adam Palmer, you are always positive, always attentive with an incredible way to remember names of anyone you meet. Your support, professionalism and the ability to treat everyone with respect is exceptional. You inspired me to become a volunteer which then later led me to be president of a board at a community policing center. The VPD became ‘next level’ under your leadership. I can see it in every interaction I ever had with your officers.” — Marianna Pandy
“Dear Chief Palmer, you have been an exceptional leader to the VPD, demonstrating outstanding talent as a public speaker and effortlessly combining your sincere warmth, easy relatability, and humble intelligence in all of your endeavours. Your balanced and open-minded approach enabled you to be both innovative and practical. Your remarkable ability to remember names and faces consistently leaves a lasting and positive impression on everyone you meet. You are leaving very big shoes to fill.” — Leah
“Chief Palmer, as you prepare to retire after an extraordinary 37 years of service, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for your leadership, dedication, and the profound impact you have had on my career and the VPD as a whole. You have been Chief for my entire policing career, and I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering support you have shown me—especially during my pursuit of the Olympics in 2018. Your encouragement meant more than I can express and exemplified the kind of leader you are—one who puts the well-being and success of others at the forefront, ensuring that every member of this department feels valued and supported. I have always admired your commitment to this city, your integrity in leadership, and your ability to strengthen and unify the VPD through your vision. Your legacy is one of excellence, and I am truly honored to have served under your command. As you step into this next chapter, I hope you take time to enjoy the opportunities ahead. You have more than earned it.” — Meghan Agosta
“I want to say thank you to Chief Palmer. It is my honor to know you through the VPD Cadet Program. This program has been an incredible opportunity for young people like me to gain a deeper understanding of policing, leadership, and community service. Your leadership has been a constant source of inspiration, not just to the cadets, but to everyone who has had the privilege to work with you. Your dedication to the VPD Cadet Program has allowed so many of us to develop important skills and a strong sense of responsibility, helping to shape the future of law enforcement. As you retire, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your service and the lasting impact you’ve had on both the department and the community. Thank you for everything you’ve done for the VPD, the Cadet Program, and the city of Vancouver.” — Thomas Duong
“Thank you, Chief Palmer, for your unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our community! Your leadership, integrity and tireless dedication have not only shaped the department but also inspired countless officers and citizens alike. Vancouver is truly fortunate to have been guided by such a remarkable leader and we express our deepest gratitude for your invaluable contributions!” — Mike Senior
“As someone who has experienced the work of the VPD firsthand under your leadership—both as a victim, a donor, and an engaged citizen who has assisted police—I want to sincerely thank you for your leadership. Your dedication to the community and unwavering commitment to service have made a lasting impact.” — Elizabeth Robbins
“Chief Palmer, throughout your tenure, you have been a true partner in fostering a safe and supportive environment for learning. Your collaboration with our schools has strengthened the bonds between law enforcement and education, ensuring that our children grow up in a community where safety, respect, and trust are paramount.” — Victoria Jung, VSB
“As you hang up your badge, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your unwavering dedication to our community. Your selfless service, guidance, and vision have made Vancouver a safer, more compassionate place. Your retirement marks the end of an era, but your impact will be felt for years to come. You’ve inspired countless officers, staff, and community members with your leadership, wisdom, and kindness. Thank you for being an exceptional role model and public servant.” — Mosinkhan Mansuri
The Vancouver Police Foundation supports programs and initiatives that fall within three streams: community outreach and engagement (including programs for women, youth and seniors); public and personal safety; and specialized equipment and technology. You can help make Vancouver safer for all by donating to the Vancouver Police Foundation.
