York Regional Police Chief, Jim MacSween, has announced his retirement, effective June 26, 2026, marking the end of his six-year tenure as the region's chief of police. He made the announcement public on Thursday, expressing that it has been the greatest honor of his career to lead the dedicated members of the York Regional Police Service.
MacSween's career in policing spans an impressive 37 years, during which he has contributed significantly to community safety and law enforcement. In his announcement, he conveyed immense gratitude and pride for the work he has accomplished alongside his team. He indicated that his focus will now transition towards ensuring a seamless handover to his successor, highlighting his desire to maintain stability within the department during this period of change.
The York Regional Police Service Board has congratulated Chief MacSween, honoring his commitment to integrity, professionalism, and public safety. They emphasized that he served the community with a dedicated focus on these values throughout his career. MacSween took on the role of Chief of Police on May 1, 2020, after a series of progressive roles within the police force, which included significant positions in the Criminal Investigations Bureau, Community Services, Training and Education Bureaus, and the Hold-Up Unit.
Throughout his career, MacSween has achieved numerous milestones in policing and public service. He served as the commander of two police districts and held the position of Deputy Chief, overseeing the Support Branch. His extensive leadership experience has also included roles such as president of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police and chair of the Canadian Police Knowledge Network. Additionally, he has been active on several boards, including the St. John Ambulance Board of Directors and Special Olympics Ontario.
As Chief of Police, MacSween initiated various programs and strategies aimed at enhancing community safety and police relations. His leadership style has been characterized by his dedication to fostering a professional and compassionate police force, and he has been widely recognized for his efforts to improve police visibility and engagement within the community.
Chief MacSween's retirement reflects a significant transition for the York Regional Police, as the organization prepares to welcome new leadership. His commitment to the principles of integrity and public safety has left an indelible mark on the department, and his successor will have the responsibility of continuing this legacy while navigating the evolving landscape of law enforcement in the region.
In summary, Chief Jim MacSween’s retirement after a commendable six years as the Chief of York Regional Police highlights both the achievements of his tenure and the importance of effective leadership in public safety. His contributions over nearly four decades serve as a testament to the values and commitment needed in police work, setting a strong foundation for future leadership within the police service.
