The Ottawa Police Services Board has appointed a new deputy chief of police.
Superintendent Steven Bell will replace deputy chief Ed Keeley, who is on leave, and will retire at the end of January 2017.
Bell will serve as deputy chief alongside Jill Skinner.
In a news release, issued Thursday, the Board says Bell is a 21 year veteran of policing, having served all but one year with the Ottawa Police Service.
Bell has served as a Neighbourhood Officer, in the Drug Unit, the Guns and Gangs Unit, the youth section, the Professional Standards sections, Courts and Temporary Custody, and the Service Initiative. He is currently the Chief Human Resources Officer overseeing the Resourcing and Development Directorate.
Board Chair and City Councillor Eli El-Chantiry said in a statement, “Deputy Chief-Designate Bell is a highly motivated, forward-thinking law enforcement professional who brings creativity and enthusiasm to the job. His contributions will be invaluable as we continue to work on transforming the Police Service to address the needs of members and better serve the community.”
Chief of Police Charles Bordeleau's statement says, “Supt. Bell’s experience, fresh ideas, and ability to motivate people are an asset to the organization, and I look forward to welcoming him to my Executive Command team.”
Bell also made a statement, saying, “I am extremely proud and honoured to take on this new role within the organization, and look forward to working with Chief Bordeleau, members of the Police Service, the Board, and community partners to continue to provide the highest level of safety and security in the City of Ottawa.”