A former chief of police is temporarily stepping back into the role as the beleaguered local service continues its search for a new leader.
Denis Lavoie has been appointed as the acting chief. The appointment is effective on Jan. 8. He'll stay on in the acting role while the service searches for a full-time chief.
Lavoie was the Timmins Police chief from 1997-2004 and helped with recruitment at the service until 2011.
"At a time when resources are already scarce, the board sought to add valuable assistance and historical insight to our organization," said Kraymr Grenke, Timmins Police Services Board chair, in a news release. "Chief Lavoie's familiarity with the workings of our community and the police service uniquely positions him to add support during our transition."
In November, Dan Foy, who had been the top cop since February 2022, suddenly retired.
SEE: Timmins Police chief steps down
After that, Henry Dacosta was named acting police chief and Darren Dinel is the acting deputy chief. With Lavoie's temporary appointment, Dacosta returns to his role as deputy chief and Dinel returns to his position as an inspector.
"We appreciate the dedication and professionalism of deputy chief Dacosta and inspector Dinel who stepped up to act as chief and deputy chief during this transition. Their commitment provides the organization with stability during this crucial time," said Grenke.
The Timmins Police Services Board has hired a headhunter — Waterhouse Executive Search — to help choose the next chief.
Days before Foy — who had been in the position for less than two years — retired last month, the Timmins Police Association voted overwhelmingly in favour of asking the Ontario Civilian Police Commission (OCPC) for help to address the staffing crisis and public and officer safety concerns that come with it.
The OCPC is a third-party agency that can conduct investigations and resolve disputes about the oversight and provision of policing services.
The board says that the job posting for the chief's position is open and that all qualified candidates are welcome to apply. It closes on Jan. 29.
The full job description and information on how to apply is available here.
