An Oak Bay police officer is among 71 to earn provincial commissions.
Deputy Chief Const. Kent Thom was among the officers in B.C. to receive the Police Officer Commissions, a new provincial honour to formally recognize high-calibre, senior members of municipal police departments and designated policing units for their rank, professionalism and dedication to policing.
Officers meet the criteria of an exemplary service record; 10 or more years of service in B.C.; a baccalaureate or master’s degree or equivalent, or the rank of inspector or higher for at least four years; and a qualifying supervisor or police board’s recommendation for a commission.
“Kent was the one member in our department who met the criteria and we thought it was a great opportunity to acknowledge his service and his dedication to the community,” said Chief Andy Brinton. “He’s been providing a high level of dedication to the community.”
Thom came to Oak Bay 11 years ago after 25 years with the Edmonton Police Service. He’s served as deputy chief in Oak Bay for eight years. “The honour bestowed by the province on Deputy Chief Thom is richly deserved. I am very glad his dedicated service and contribution to our community has been recognized in such a fitting way,” said Mayor Nils Jensen, chair of the Oak Bay Police Board.
Government passed related legislation in 2014 and recently finalized eligibility criteria.
“The outstanding leadership and dedication of the officers recognized today reflect their ongoing commitment to the highest level of service to British Columbians,” said Solicitor General Mike Morris, Minister of Public Safety. “These officers have raised the public-safety benchmark in this province, and we can all take comfort in their continued efforts to make our communities safer.”
Only currently serving members are eligible to receive a commission.