West Vancouver — As Chair of the West Vancouver Police Board, Mayor Mary-Ann Booth is pleased to announce that after an extensive, nationwide search, John Lo has been selected as West Vancouver’s new Chief Constable. He assumes the position from retiring Chief Len Goerke, who has provided strong leadership to the WVPD since 2014. 

“The Board and I sought a Chief who would be a collaborative leader, a critical thinker, and most importantly, a person who believes in meaningful community engagement. John Lo possesses those qualities, understands the unique nature of West Vancouver, and cares deeply for the sworn and civilian members that provide the service residents value,” said Mayor Booth. “We welcome him as Chief, and are confident he will continue to lead the WVPD forward in developing a new strategic plan that responds to the opportunities and challenges emerging at this critical time in policing.”

John brings over two decades of police experience to this role, most of it in the WVPD, and is the first internal promotion to the top seat in 17 years. John also benefited from a secondment opportunity with the homicide section of the Vancouver Police Department.  In successive leadership roles within the WVPD, including his most recent as Deputy Chief, he gained experience within professional standards, operations and administration.  As Chief he will strive to ensure community engagement; Indigenous relations; and equity, diversity and inclusion are at the forefront of WVPD’s mandate. 

Chief Lo holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Simon Fraser University and is working to obtain is Master of Arts in Conflict Analysis and Management from Royal Roads University. He also enjoys volunteering as a coach with Coastal FC Soccer.

The Board is delighted that John has agreed to assume this important role, and is very much looking forward to working with him and his team to build upon the strong organizational legacy left by Chief Goerke.