Author Archives: Jess

In the summer of 2022, two Vancouver Police Department Constables, Nathan Johre and Chris Birkett, noticed something troubling while working in the Strathcona neighbourhood. Despite seeing kids of all ages out riding bikes and enjoying the outdoors, many were not wearing helmets or using proper safety gear. After speaking with some of the young riders, […]...

We are proud to share that four members of the Vancouver Police Department have been nationally recognized for their outstanding contributions to community safety and well-being that go above and beyond their day-to-day policing roles. VPD’s Lori Hemm, Sergeant Rita Raj, Sergeant Rob Dairon, and Sergeant Julie Gilmore were recently honoured by the Canadian Association […]...

After nearly six years of service, PSD Vook has officially retired from duty. Vook and his handler, Cst. Chris Hudson, graduated training together in September 2019 and served side by side until Vook’s medical retirement in May 2025 – continuing a family policing legacy started by Ret. Cst. Hudson Sr. One of their very first […]...

Specialized vests help keep police service dogs safer on the job The Vancouver Police Department’s K9 Unit has a powerful tool to help keep its four-legged members safe: specially designed ballistic vests for every Police Service Dog (PSD). Thanks to funding from the Vancouver Police Foundation, these vests are worn by all 16 working dogs […]...

In Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (DTES), youth face extraordinary challenges that threaten to derail their futures before they’ve had a chance to begin. Poverty, addiction, unstable housing, and tricky family situations significantly increases the chance of high risk behaviours as youth transition from elementary to high school. This is an especially critical period when boys are […]...

This year’s VPD Canine and Mounted Unit calendars have once again proven that the Vancouver Police Department’s four-legged members can make a big impact, both in the community and beyond. The annual calendars are the result of a partnership between the Vancouver Police Department, the Vancouver Police Foundation, the VPD Canine Unit, and the VPD […]...

Out On Patrol, a registered non-profit society based in British Columbia, is transforming the landscape for 2SLGBTQ+ law enforcement professionals — and for the communities they serve. Thanks to several key law enforcement leaders right here at the VPD, and with financial support from the Vancouver Police Foundation, Out On Patrol launched in 2020, creating […]...

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 […]...

Since its launch in 2014, the VPD Cadet Program has provided young people with leadership training, life skills, and a unique introduction to law enforcement. Just as the program itself has grown and evolved over time, so too has its visual identity—culminating in a brand-new logo that was just unveiled. A logo is more than […]...

The Vancouver Police Foundation is proud to support 15 youth-focused sports and recreation programs that use physical activity as a powerful tool to build trust, encourage healthy lifestyles, and strengthen connections between police officers and young people. Every single one of these programs is developed and led by dedicated VPD officers who volunteer their time […]...