Date: Monday, September 8, 2025
Victoria, B.C. – VicPD welcomed seven new officers into its ranks last week, surrounded by colleagues, family, and friends. The swearing-in ceremony, also the first for new Chief Fiona Wilson, marked a significant step forward for the Victoria Police Department and the community it serves.
“Today is more than a formality. It is a day that marks the beginning of a journey - a journey of service, sacrifice, and purpose. It is a day that unites you with generations of officers who have worn this uniform with pride, dignity, and courage,” says Chief Wilson. “Today is a celebration. A celebration of service, of community, and of the bright future these recruits represent. Their backgrounds are diverse, ranging from former Reserve and Special Municipal Constables to a Correctional Guard and dedicated community volunteers, including two with a finance background, and will build upon the proud legacy of VicPD.”
Addressing the recruits directly, Chief Wilson emphasized, “Policing rests on trust. The authority you are granted today comes not from me, not from this department, but from the people of Victoria and Esquimalt. They allow us to carry a badge and wear this uniform because they trust that we will use our authority wisely, fairly, and justly. Trust is fragile. It is earned in moments big and small—every conversation, every traffic stop, every call for service. It is built on respect, empathy, and professionalism.”
Chief Wilson is pictured with the new recruits.
The ceremony also reflected the diversity of our community and the Department. With recruits affirming their commitment to service while holding sacred texts representative of their faith. This included recruits of Christianity, Sikh and Jewish faiths swearing their oath upon the Holy Bible, Gutka Sahib and a Torah, respectively. The Victoria Police Department is committed to fostering an inclusive and representative workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
Pictured are the books of oath received by each new recruit, alongside the Holy Bible, Gutka Sahib and a Torah.
These new recruits are committed to connecting with our diverse community through trust and understanding. Their skills and awareness of cultural and social dynamics exemplify VicPD’s commitment to attracting dedicated and qualified candidates seeking challenging careers in policing. These seven new officers have already demonstrated this commitment by participating in the Beyond the Badge program, further solidifying their dedication to community engagement. Beyond the Badge is a program designed to foster stronger relationships between VicPD officers and the diverse communities they serve through meaningful engagement and understanding.
In 2025, VicPD hired 19 new recruits. If you are ready for a career in policing, there has never been a better time to Join VicPD. For more information, visit vicpd.ca/joinvicpd.
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