Winnipeg police Chief Gene Bowers. (WPS / HANDOUT)
The Winnipeg Police Service has announced the appointment of Gene Bowers as its new chief of police, effective Monday.
Bowers, a 36-year veteran of the force, succeeds Danny Smyth, who retired last September.
Bowers has held various positions with the WPS since he joined in 1989, including deputy chief since September. He arrives at the top job with experience spanning uniform operations, administrative roles, and criminal investigations.
Bowers’ appointment follows a comprehensive selection process by the Winnipeg Police Board to identify the best candidate to lead the service forward.
The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) acknowledged Bowers’ appointment, expressing hope for a renewed relationship between the WPS and First Nations leadership.
As chief, Bowers will oversee a force of more than 1,300 officers and 500 civilian staff.
