Cobourg’s new police chief says a connection to the community played a major role in his decision to take on the position.
Chief Chris Leather sat down with Classic Rock 107.9’s York Bell-Smith this past week to welcome him as Cobourg’s new police chief.
Leather officially joined the Cobourg Police Service as chief on June first after retiring from the RCMP in April. While the opportunity came unexpectedly, Leather says Cobourg was a community he already knew well.
His wife’s family has lived in the area for decades, and his family has spent years visiting Cobourg.
Leather says he also had a positive experience visiting Cobourg several years ago while working with the RCMP. He was invited to speak at a Remembrance Day gathering and says the support he received from residents and community leaders stood out.
Now in his first months as chief, Leather says he is getting familiar with the challenges and opportunities facing the community.
One area he has identified is addressing concerns around homelessness, open drug use, and nuisance gatherings. Leather says the issue has been raised by residents, businesses, and community leaders, particularly during the busy summer months when more people are visiting downtown and the waterfront.
He says the service will be developing a formal strategic plan later this year, but some immediate actions are already underway.
Leather says police recently conducted a drug sweep in Victoria Park and will continue targeted enforcement efforts while working with social services and health partners.
Leather says the goal is to provide support while also addressing behaviours that are affecting other members of the community.
The new chief is also welcoming the return of Cobourg’s police canine unit.
The program was brought back this summer with Constable Amrit Gill and canine Atos after more than 20 years without a dedicated canine team.
Leather says the return of the unit was made possible through cooperation with other police services, including Belleville.
Leather says the new capability will allow police services to support one another while providing another resource for Cobourg and the surrounding area.
As Cobourg enters its busiest season, Leather says he is looking forward to experiencing more of what the community has to offer, including major events and downtown celebrations.
He says the connection between residents, businesses, and visitors is one of the things that makes the community stand out.
(Written by: Branden Rushton)
