Chief Supt. Dyson Smith is the new commanding officer of the NWT . 

SA国际影视传媒淚 am honoured to have been selected as the commanding officer of the Northwest Territories . Policing in the North has been the most rewarding experience of my career," Smith stated as the news of his promotion was released on Aug. 28. "I consider myself very fortunate to have the opportunity to experience first-hand not only the majesty of our vast territory, but the privilege of meeting such honourable and caring people."

Smith, who is of Metis heritage, has worked in policing for 24 years. In that time, he has served in Alberta, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Nunavut and the NWT. During his tenure in the NWT, he has held several leadership roles, including officer in charge of North district, officer in charge of Yellowknife, assistant criminal operations officer, and, most recently, officer in charge of criminal operations.

As commanding officer, Smith says he will strive to curb the territory's drug problem, in part by rolling out a new Territorial Crime Reduction Unit, with support from the GNWT. 

SA国际影视传媒淚n recent years, we have seen an increase in drug-related crime, orchestrated by crime groups from the South," he said. "The negative impact being faced by all of our communities is something that must be addressed. I am committed to working collaboratively with all of our communities and various levels of government to combat this issue.SA国际影视传媒�

He also aims to strengthen community relationships and "demystify policing."

SA国际影视传媒淏uilding relationships, and strengthening old ones, is something that has always been important to me," he said. "I believe that being open and honest is the only way to make progress. We donSA国际影视传媒檛 always have to agree, but we must listen to each other and at least accept each othersSA国际影视传媒� position.

"Policing should not be a mysterious thing that is hidden behind a veil," he added. "It is my goal to ensure greater transparency and openness. Keeping in mind that there will always be certain things that we cannot openly discuss, I want to pull back the curtain and help everyone understand policing and why things are done a certain way. I want the people of the Northwest Territories to have confidence in their police force.SA国际影视传媒�

In a separate news release published by the GNWT, Premier R.J. Simpson welcomed Smith to his new role, and outlined some of the areas where he hopes to collaborate with the territory's new top cop in the coming years.

"The NWT policing priorities for 2024-2027 include building strong relationships with Indigenous communities and residents; targeting enforcement responses to reduce illegal drugs and alcohol; reducing harm to Indigenous women, girls and families, and children; and increasing awareness of roles and responsibilities," Simpson said. "I look forward to working with Chief Supt. Smith as he leads G Division in improving community safety for NWT residents.SA国际影视传媒�