By Geoff Smith (@smithco on Twitter)

Woods promoted to Deputy Police Chief

Jun 7, 2017 | 9:33 AM

LETHBRIDGE – The Lethbridge Police Service is promoting from within to fill the position of deputy chief.

Scott Woods, most recently Staff Sergeant responsible for the criminal investigation section, began his new job on Wednesday (June 7). His new responsibilities include oversight of the professional standards unit, policy and accreditation unit, IT section, the business management section and victim/witness services.

He will also assist Chief Rob Davis in day-to-day operations.

“Scott’s provided tremendous leadership, in the time I’ve been here,” Davis said, noting that he worked to develop and mentor members of his team.

“Just a completely selfless individual. He epitomizes the values of the police service that we want to see in a leadership position like this.”

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Woods joined the Lethbridge Police Service in 1997 after graduating from Mount Royal University’s Criminal Justice program. During that time he worked on patrol, investigated domestic crimes and violent crimes, and was a K9 officer with Abba, the service’s first and only female police service dog.

“It’s all been great in its own different ways,” Woods reflected, adding some of his fondest memories are from his time with the K9 unit, and working his way up through the criminal investigation section to become a staff sergeant.

“I’ve had a great career. I’ve been very lucky to be surrounded by a lot of good people who’ve influenced me along the way.”

Davis said policing has changed in recent years, and the structure and duties will evolve.

“The biggest support for me as chief is that he’s my right hand person,” he explained. “He can help in the decision-making, provide accountability throughout the organization — a key part of the organization, and I’m glad to have him.”

The deputy chief position was vacant for approximately a year, following the retirement of Colin Catonio.