New Westminster police Chief Constable Lorne Zapotichny announced his retirement today.
The Chief’s last official day in office will be February 28th 2011. The New Westminster Police Board will announce a succession plan before that date.
Lorne Zapotichny joined the New Westminster Police in February 1998 and was sworn in as Chief Constable in August 2000. Prior to joining the New Westminster Police Service, Lorne completed 30 years of service with the R.C.M.P. At the time of his retirement from the RCMP, Lorne was the Officer In Charge of the 160 member Coquitlam/Port Coquitlam Detachment where he demonstrated a strong commitment to community policing.
The Chief believes it is time to ‘pass the torch’ of leadership and spend more time with his wife of 39 years, his children and grandchildren.
Chief Constable Zapotichny brought passion, dedication and leadership to the New Westminster Police Service. Lorne’s friendship and humour will be greatly missed.
All the men and women, sworn members and civilians alike, congratulate Lorne and wish him a happy and healthy retirement.