10/15/2026
SOUTH SIMCOE POLICE SERVICE ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT OF CHIEF JOHN VAN D**E FOLLOWING 37 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE
Media release here: https://southsimcoepolice.on.ca/media-releases/south-simcoe-police-service-announces-retirement-of-chief-john-van-dyke-following-37-years-of-dedicated-service/
The Bradford West Gwillimbury/Innisfil Police Service Board announces the retirement of South Simcoe Police Service Chief of Police John Van D**e, effective January 29, 2027. His last day in office will be December 22, 2026.
Chief Van D**e's retirement marks the conclusion of an exceptional 37-year policing career dedicated to serving and protecting the communities of Bradford West Gwillimbury and Innisfil.
“On behalf of the Police Service Board, I extend our sincere appreciation and gratitude to Chief Van D**e for his 37 years of dedicated service, leadership and unwavering commitment to our communities. Throughout his career, John has demonstrated the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, with a genuine commitment to the people he serves and the members who serve alongside him. His leadership has been defined not only by his dedication to public safety, but also by the relationships he has built, the trust he has earned and the compassion he has consistently demonstrated. His contributions have left a lasting impact on our police service and the communities we serve.” - Chris Gariepy, Chair of the Bradford West Gwillimbury/Innisfil Police Service Board.
As member of the South Simcoe Police Service since its formation in 1997, Chief Van D**e has served in a wide range of operational and leadership roles throughout his career, including General Patrol, Criminal Investigations, Recruiting, Professional Standards, Courts and Community Services. His extensive operational experience and progression through supervisory, management and executive leadership positions have provided him with a comprehensive understanding of policing and the evolving needs of the communities of Bradford West Gwillimbury and Innisfil.
Throughout his career, Chief Van D**e has remained committed to strengthening community relationships, supporting the well-being and professional development of members, and advancing a police service that is responsive to the needs of its growing and changing communities. His approach to leadership and dedication to serving our communities reflect the South Simcoe Police Service motto, “Protect with Courage. Serve with Compassion.” These guiding principles have shaped his commitment to public service, building meaningful community partnerships and strengthening public trust and confidence in policing.
Beyond his contributions to the South Simcoe Police Service, Chief Van D**e has supported the broader policing profession through his involvement with several Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police committees and service on community boards. In 2015, he served as the security planning lead for the Pan Am Games Shooting Centre hosted by the Town of Innisfil.
“John's legacy extends well beyond his accomplishments as Chief of Police,” added Chair Gariepy. “He has been a respected colleague, mentor and leader who has dedicated much of his life to the South Simcoe Police Service and the people of Bradford West Gwillimbury and Innisfil. We thank him for his many years of service and personal sacrifice, and wish John and his family good health, happiness and every success as he begins this well-deserved next chapter.”
The Bradford West Gwillimbury/Innisfil Police Service Board will begin the process to identify the next Chief of Police. The Board is committed to ensuring a transition that supports strong leadership, organizational continuity and the continued delivery of effective policing services to the communities of Bradford West Gwillimbury and Innisfil.
