The Winnipeg Police Service held a swearing-in ceremony Monday morning to welcome Gene Bowers as the 19th chief of police in the city's history.
The Winnipeg Police Board announced Friday, March 7, that Deputy Police Chief Gene Bowers would take over the role previously held by Danny Smyth, who retired from the WPS in September 2024.
Today, he took the official Oath of Allegiance and Office, marking the formal commencement of his duties as Chief.
"I am deeply honoured to serve as the next Chief of the Winnipeg Police Service and lead the dedicated men and women of our police service. My focus will be on enhancing public safety, supporting our members, and strengthening community relationships," said Chief Gene Bowers.
Bowers has been with the Winnipeg Police Service since 1989. Since then, he has held a variety of roles in the force, including positions in Uniform Operations, administrative sections, and criminal investigations. He was also recently awarded the Police Exemplary Service Medal from the Governor General of Canada and the Attorney General of Manitoba's Excellence in Law Enforcement Award.
Chief Bowers says he will emphasize public safety, reconciliation with Indigenous peoples and community engagement.
“I am committed to working closely with Indigenous leaders and community members to promote healing, understanding, and a path toward true reconciliation. Meaningful and positive change can only be achieved when we work together in partnership with the communities we have sworn to serve and protect.”
Chief Bowers officially took on the role of police chief on March 10.