M’CHIGEENG – It is with regret that UCCM Anishnaabe Police Commission Chair Peter (Benji) Nahwegahbo announces that Chief of Police Rodney Nahwegahbow will be retiring from the UCCM Anishnaabe Police Service effective November 2019.
Chief Nahwegahbow became only the second chief of police to serve since the police service was recognized as a regional, self-administered First Nation Police Service in 1995. Chief of Police Nahwegahbow joined the UCCM Anishnaabe Police Service in the fall of 1992 following three years with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) where he served at the Still River and Espanola detachments. Chief Nahwegahbow served the UCCM Police Services as a constable and sergeant before becoming the Chief of Police in 2010.
During his tenure with the OPP, Chief Nahwegahbow became the 13 District First Nations Liaison Officer and supported advancements and autonomy of the First Nation Police Services. Chief of Police Nahwegahbow is an active member and contributor to the First Nation Chiefs of Police Association and has been a spokesperson for the service throughout the province.
Through his vision and determination, Chief of Police Nahwegahbo was also responsible for the creation of additional services such as the Social Navigator program which he promotes here on the Manitoulin Island and across Canada for all First Nation police services.
Commission Chair Peter (Benji) Nahwegahbo states that a succession plan is currently being undertaken to replace the UCCM Police Services Chief of Police. He further stated, “while we are sorry to see a community leader and friend leave our police family, Chief of Police Nahwegahbow’s dedication and, sometimes thankless, hard work on behalf of the organization, especially the First Nation communities of Mnidoo Mnising, will not be forgotten or overlooked.”
