By Pam Wright
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
“Service above self” is more than just a motto to Chatham-Kent’s new chief of police.
“It will be our way of life,” said Chief Kirk Earley after being officially sworn in June 19. “We are a public service entrusted with the sacred duty of caring for each other and our community and we do this with honour, integrity, compassion and courage.”
Held at the Chatham Armoury, the change-of-command ceremony saw a large crowd gather to wish Earley, and retiring chief Gary Conn, well, as they embark on the next leg of their journeys.
Along with family, friends and government officials, officers from other Ontario police services came to mark the historic milestone, acknowledging the service of both men. Each was recognized with a standing ovation.
Earley, who started as a Chatham police special constable 27 years ago became a sworn officer in 1998, the year of amalgamation. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, working in supervisory and investigative roles in various branches of the CKPS, including intelligence and major crimes.
In his pledge to officers under his command, as well as the community, Earley committed to working together as a team to ensure safety for all.
“Regardless of the challenge we face, the commitment to you is that we’ll do it together,” Earley stated, noting safety is the service’s primary responsibility.”
“Every decision we make, every action we take, must be guided by the commitment to ensuring the safety of our members and our community,” he explained.
In his comments, Earley paid tribute to his family and friends, thanking his wife Janet, his children, mom Jean, dad Jim, and big sister Dana Earley, who is an Ontario Provincial Police Chief Superintendent.
“But I’m sure I’ll still outrank you,” Earley joked with his sibling. “No salute necessary.”
The new chief also singled out his mom who makes frequent visits to the CKPS front desk bearing treats, checking with staff to see if her son is doing a good job.
“I’m still slightly afraid of her,” Earley said wryly.
According to Earley, Ontario’s socio-economic impacts have added to the workload of police across the province and Chatham-Kent is no exception.
In order to combat those impacts, Earley plans on expanding in-house health and well-being programs for officers, including the designation of a wellness champion.
“When we take care of ourselves, we are far better equipped to take care of those around us,” he said.
The new chief also plans to conduct a review to ensure the CKPS’s objectives are in line with the community. As well, he’s looking to further engage with the people of Chatham-Kent, ramping up communication efforts internally and externally, utilizing online social media platforms.
“There is no better time for us to tell our story,” Earley noted. “This will enhance and build trust, confidence and transparency.”
When it comes to the expectations Earley has for himself and the CKPS, he urged progress, not perfection.
“Hold yourselves to a standard that your mom, your dad, your grandma or grandpa would expect of you, and at the end of each day look in the mirror and be proud of what of you did,” Earley said. “And if you’re not, and you will have those days, promise yourself you’ll be better the next day and the day after that.”
Ontario Superior Court of Justice Bruce Thomas, who oversaw the official swearing in, pointed out strong leadership in policing is needed today, more than ever, as the rule of law comes under attack from multiple directions.
“While this is clearly an occasion for celebration, I want to emphasize the importance of the role that Chief Earley is assuming and add some words of caution,” Thomas told the crowd. “Never has it been more difficult to be a police officer in this province. Never has it been more dangerous, with the proliferation of firearms, drug use, gang violence and the sense of empowerment and anonymity offered by social media.”
In his remarks, CKPS board chair Pat Weaver emphasized the important role police play in democracy maintaining “rule of law.
“We must have law and peace and order to have a strong community,” Weaver said, as he praised Conn for his service to Chatham-Kent and welcomed Earley to the role.
CKPS board member Mayor Darrin Canniff also commended Conn for the “amazing job” he did as chief.
“You set us up for success in so many ways,” Canniff said.
He went on to say Earley will be a great leader.
“I can’t wait to work with you,” Canniff said. “Thanks, Kirk.”
In his remarks, Conn said he’s looking to be “chief of the lawnmower” and pool cleaner in the immediate future.
“As I step into my next chapter, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a commitment to continue serving,” an emotional Conn told the crowd as he thanked his family, colleagues and community for their support.
“Our time together has ended but the experiences we have shared is a memory that will last a lifetime,” he added.
