The Calgary Police Commission has completed its search for a new chief and on Tuesday announced that Roger Chaffin, a 30 year veteran of the force, will take over the top job.

Chaffin replaces Paul Cook, who has held the position of chief on an interim basis since Rick Hanson's departure in March.

“Calgary has one of the best police services in the world- one that enjoys a high level of trust and respect from the community. We are confident that our new Chief will continue to build strong relationships with the community and drive innovations in community policing,” said Commission Chair Rod Fong. “Deputy Chief Chaffin is described by his peers as a thoughtful and outstanding leader and is respected as a mentor and trusted colleague. The Police Commission is confident that he will live up to our high expectations and more importantly the expectations of Calgarians.”

The Commission recommended the appointment and City Council ratified the decision on Tuesday.

“I’ve very pleased with the appointment of Roger Chaffin as our new Chief of Police,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi. “His focus on community policing is exactly the kind of service that builds resilient, strong, and connected communities. I look forward to working with him.” 

Chaffin has been with the CPS since 1986 and was most recently in charge of the Bureau of Organizational Support.

"It's been an interesting road to get here today, it is not an easy process, I think the time they spent will all of us to get to this decision is humbling to say the least and I come here today, and you'll notice without a speech, there are certainly lots of challenges and opportunities for us going forward but there's an incredible amount of hope going for this service going forward as well. We are left with a service that is truly the envy of probably every city in North America and that is no small undertaking," said Chaffin. "I'm incredibly honoured by the challenge of getting out back in the community now and making sure the confidence in that model will never be lost."

Chief Chaffin was appointed to the Order of Merit for Police Forces last month and has also received the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal, Federal Exemplary Service Medal, Alberta Law Enforcement Long Service Medal, Calgary Police Service Distinguished Service Medal and Calgary Police Service Chief’s Award of Excellence.

Chief Chaffin officially takes the helm on October 19, 2015.