RPS name Evan Bray new chief of police

Evan Bray is Regina’s new chief of police.

The 21-year member of the force beat out several other candidates for the top job.

He was the unanimous pick of the Regina Police Service’s (RPS) Board of Police Commissioners.

Bray has a background in media and communications prior to his role as a police officer.

As a member of the force, he has served in both front line uniform work and plain clothes sections.

He also held various positions with the Regina Police Association and other professional bodies. He hopes that unique perspective will bridge the gap that sometimes exist between frontline officers and the top brass.

“I have a passion and belief in our city, our community and the people that work in this building,” Bray said.

“We’re just going to see some enthusiasm going forward and I’m optimistic about the positive changes that that’s going to bring about for our service and our city.”

There are some challenges ahead for Bray. In September, crime statistics showed violent crime is on the rise in Regina.

“We will talk about where we are at internally with the resources we have, are we deployed the way we should be to maximize the effect that we have and the positive impact that we can have on building safety into our community.”

Bray spoke of continuing the work with various partners in the community started by his predecessors.

For Mayor Micheal Fougere and the Board of Police Commissioners it was a unanimous pick from a number of candidates. Knowing the lengthy selection process Fougere contends they have the right pick.
 
“There were 41 preliminary interviews, 24 second interviews, there were 10 prospective candidates, the commission interviewed eight and of those eight we interviewed two twice and from there we got to our selection.” Fougere explained.
 
Joking he must now find his new office, Bray begins a new chapter for the Regina Police Service.
 
“I still am excited beyond belief to be able to put this uniform on everyday and do a job that I love.”