Starting in the summer, a new face will lead the Victoria Police Department after current Chief Const. Del Manak steps down to retire in late August.
On Friday, April 11, the upcoming Chief Const. Fiona Wilson spoke with media and presented her commitments over the coming years as she takes the helm of the department.
"The vision of VicPD, a safer community together, aligns closely with my own beliefs," she said. "I'm a strong proponent of collaborative, community-informed policing. I believe in serving not just the public but also our sworn officers and civilian professionals who work tirelessly every day to keep our community safe. Together, we will continue to build a police service that is rooted in inclusivity, professionalism, and respect, one that reflects the values of the communities we serve."
Wilson previously served as one of three deputy chief constables with the Vancouver Police Department where she oversaw Vancouver's Investigation Division, the Combined Forces Special Enforcement and Federal Serious and Organized Crime units.
"This is a remarkable match. We have a person here who's coming in with extraordinary experience and a really remarkable match with what I believe the City of Victoria's values are around community safety and well-being," said Victoria Mayor Marianne Alto.
A recruitment group spent almost nine months in a national search for a new police chief.
Wilson will begin her role on Aug. 15, with a two-week transition alongside Manak prior to his retirement on Aug. 31.