Deputy Chief Ken Weatherill is retiring after nearly 35 years in policing.

Weatherill joined the Barrie Police Service in May 2017, following more than 30 years of service with Hamilton police.

Weatherill had several assignments during his career, including emergency response, explosive disposal, drugs and vice, homicide and patrol.

He became Hamilton’s deputy chief, responsible for field support, in 2014.

Three years later he transferred to Barrie, the city in which he was born, and was named deputy chief of operations.

He introduced the service’s Neighbourhood Policing Model and worked with local organizations such as Shak’s World, and the community-based Diversity and Inclusion Operational Committee.

“The highlight of my career was 35 years ago being handed my badge and sworn in as a police officer,” Weatherill said in a prepared statement. “During my career, I have worked with incredible women and men who I know have felt that same pride and responsibility. It has been an honour and privilege to serve our communities as a police officer.” 

Police services board chairperson Angela Lockridge said, “his commitment and dedication to policing was unmistakable.”