The Chair of the Oak Bay Police Board, Mayor Nils Jensen, and Oak Bay Chief Constable Andy Brinton announced today that Ray Bernoties, a 25-year veteran with the RCMP will be the new Deputy Chief for the District of Oak Bay effective May 15, 2017. Ray is currently a Chief Superintendent and the Island District Commander with the RCMP where he is responsible for the administration and operations of the 23 RCMP detachments on Vancouver Island. A distinguishing element of Mr. Bernoties’s accomplished career is his understanding and commitment to the importance of community engagement and communications in the development of a healthy, safe community, and in the development of a strong, cohesive police force. Mr. Bernoties replaces former Deputy Chief Kent Thom who retired at the end of February after serving in Oak Bay for 12 years – 9.5 of them as Deputy Chief.

“On behalf of the Oak Bay Police Board, we are pleased to welcome Ray to his new position as Deputy Chief,” said Board Chair, Mayor Jensen. “Ray’s well-earned reputation for service excellence and leadership will ensure that our residents continue to enjoy a safe and secure community. As a resident of Oak Bay with deep family ties, Ray understands and values our community, and is keen to focus his attention on the wellbeing of all citizens.”

Oak Bay Chief Constable Andy Brinton agrees. “We undertook a comprehensive search and received significant interest from some very impressive candidates. As Deputy Chief, Ray will bring to the position a diverse and valuable breadth of training, knowledge, expertise and experience. He has an inclusive leadership style and is well respected for his ability to work at the grass-roots level with the community. He is an excellent fit for our department, and for Oak Bay.”