Winnipeg’s new Chief of Police officially sworn in

Winnipeg’s newest top cop was officially sworn in on Monday, as Gene Bowers takes on the role of the 19^TH Chief of Police.

His career spans over 36 years within the Winnipeg Police Service. Bowers follows former police chief Danny Smyth who retired last September.

“I want to do good and make the city a better, safer place,” said Bowers.

“When I look at the late Harry Lehotsky and leaders like that, you have to be strong and I took that from my relationships with him to be strong”

Bowers also expressed a strong commitment to reconciliation within the Indigenous communities, emphasizing the importance of healing, understanding, and respect. He says the next step is to meet with leaders through an Indigenous Action Circle.

“We do a lot of Indigenous training, but we can always improve what we’re doing, so the Indigenous community will have a voice in what that training looks like,” said Bowers.

Bowers’ vision for the future includes strengthening the connection between police officers and the communities they serve. He plans to invest in youth through mentorship and coaching, as well as prioritize restorative justice initiatives to keep young people out of the justice system.

Other duties will include reducing violent crime and improving response times, alongside promoting a more inclusive and diverse workplace within the WPS.

“We have station duties that were closed during COVID, we are going to reopen them so that the public can come to the police stations in their area for better communication,” he explained.

As Bowers embarks on his new role, he pledges to foster transparency, hold the force accountable, and lead by example.