Go behind the scenes with members from the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU). A long format podcast giving you an in depth glimpse into lives of police officers working in Esquimalt and Victoria. You won't find content like this anywhere else and you will hear regular interviews from a diverse group of VCPU members telling their stories.
The True Blue Podcast is honoured to share Scam Prevention information with some help from Cst. Berle Zwaan of the Saanich Police. In today's complicated world protecting yourself from those trying to prey on you is vitally important. Berle is now in her 30th year of policing, she has experience in Patrol, Traffic, Mountain Bike Squad, Child Abuse Investigations, Financial Crimes and Community Engagement. It was during her time in the Financial Crimes Unit that she began to see the impact fraud artists can have on the public. In her current job she spends time passing on that knowledge to her community and helping them understand ways to “Beat the Fraudster”. Recently Berle has created a company to do presentations outside of the Saanich jurisdiction. It's called the Outsmart The Scammer Fraud Prevention Society. Feel free to reach out to Berle if you have questions or are looking for her to make a presentation and learn how to protect yourself.Berle ZwaanBerle@OutsmartTheScammer.comhttps://www.OutsmartTheScammer.comhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573233827122https://www.linkedin.com/in/berle-zwaan-bsc-86104732/Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
In this episode of the True Blue Podcast, we chat with Cst. Warren Sherman a 13 year veteran of VicPD. Warren was Jamaican born and raised before moving the Florida to finish high school and then attend Wake Forest University on an athletic scholarship. Warren did some modelling and then acting in a Jamaican soap opera after graduating university. He also worked in the private security industry in Jamaica. Warren talks about wanting to be a police officer for much of his life but was hesitant to do so in his home country. He eventually decided to move his family to Victoria and start a new life in policing at age 39.Warren is currently working in the General Investigation Section as one of the Missing Persons coordinators. He believes police work is a very important and rewarding career and certainly recommends that young people of colour consider the job if they're interested. Royal Palm Estate – Andre Lawson played by Warren ShermanRoyal Palm Estate (along with its spin-off, The Blackburns) is the longest-running television series in Jamaican history, and possibly the Caribbean's. It was a staple in Jamaican homes on a Sunday night from 1994 until 2015. Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
We start out Season 5 of the True Blue Podcast talking with Constable Ari Knazan an 11 year veteran of VicPD. Ari was hired a little later in life compared to the average recruit but obviously that meant he brought a breadth of life experiences with him to the job. He has a couple of great stories behind his motivation for becoming a police officer. Victoria Police was the only department that he applied for and loved that he got hired in the city he lived and played in. Ari worked in Patrol for the first 7 years of his career, was a Domestic Violence investigator in support of Patrol before moving to the General Investigation Section (GIS). He's now back in Patrol and looks forward to some Field Training of rookie officers and some acting Patrol Sergeant duties. Ari's Martial Arts background allows him to be part of the Department's Use of Force training cadre, which he does as a secondary duty.Ari met Chuck Norris in Las Vegas when he was 9 years old, and he says that encounter became his motivation for getting into martial arts training. One of Ari's hobbies is podcasting; he and Chad Lyman run the “No Zoo Lions Podcast” (available on Spotify) where they focus on motivations for law enforcement officers to train hard and to understand the best ways to gain compliance. He also is a co-founder of the Invictus LEO organization with Jason Rebsch and they also use the podcast platform to better inform law enforcement. (please check out the links added below)https://nozoolions.com/https://invictusleo.com/invictus-podcast Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Inspector Michael Brown was on duty on 28 June 2022 and served as the Critical Incident Commander (CIC) for this event. Insp. Brown is a 29-year Police veteran, a former GVERT operator and Team Leader, he talks about wanting to be a police officer as a kid and the GVERT Christmas gift he got as a 15-year-old! “Why Waltz, when you can Rock & Roll.”Insp. Brown goes through some of the historical GVERT information and how the team has evolved and progressed since the inception. Mike also goes over the BMO bank hostage taking from his perspective as the Officer in Command of this operation. Hear Mike, discuss how Patrol 1st responders and ERT members stepped up and became heroes that day.Inspector Brown importantly takes time to thank a few lower mainland law enforcement partners for their support and personnel contributions on the day of the bank hostage taking and for several days following. A big thank you to the police officers who have since volunteered to be the next crop of GVERT members and to those who will fill the role in the future – be safe!Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
"Your husband has been shot" - is anyone ever ready for this news?A career in police work is inherently dangerous and the families are thereby subjected to wondering how safe their spouse or parent is while on duty. The True Blue Podcast is delighted to have Amanda MacIntyre and Angela Reichert share their stories about what the past two years have been like after both their husbands were shot during the BMO incident. Hear how they received information about the shooting, all the steps on that day and the many challenges over the next 2 years.Special thanks to the Greater Victoria community for the continued support.#GVERT#TrueBlueSound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
The "True Blue Podcast" is proud to chat with Cst. Steven Reichert from Saanich Police and the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team (GVERT). He was injured during the BMO Robbery and Shootout, one gunshot wound to each leg and one to his left forearm.Steven shares details of being shot, the amazing tactical response of his teammates and shortly thereafter the medical response efforts by GVERT and Saanich Patrol members to save his life and the lives of the other officers. Steven also talks about his personal family situation, his medical recovery process in hospital, the long physio process and the challenges of his mental and emotional wellness. Steven became addicted to opioid meds, and he describes in detail the efforts to get off those medications.Moving forward, Steven will continue to work towards a full recovery and get back to an operational role, he looks forward to sharing his experiences in training opportunities with other ERT operators and police officers in general.https://www.ntoa.org/conferences/tactical-conference/ Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Rollie Woods joins Tom Stamatakis in this episode to talk about Police Oversight in British Columbia. Rollie is a former Deputy Commissioner at the BC Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner (OPPC). He has 35 years of policing experience, 10 years experience on the Executive of the Vancouver Police Union (VPU) and as President of the Senior Officer's Association before moving to work in Police Professional Standards at Vancouver Police and ultimately at the OPCC.Rollie and Tom agree that Police Oversight has an important role to play in ensuring there are professional and accountable police officers working in BC. Rollie highlights how important open communications with the public, police agencies and police unions were during his tenure at the OPCC. He also brings light to the different standards of police oversight currently in place here in British Columbia and how confusing to the public it must be.Tom gets some comments from Rollie about police body cameras and how they might influence future Police Act investigations. How it assists with confirming what really took place and provides the public with some assurance that proper accountability is being attained. Body cameras also come with challenges related to cost, storage and personal privacy.Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner (OPCC) https://opcc.bc.ca/Canadian Association for Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement (CACOLE) https://cacole.ca/home-accueil-eng.shtmlSound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
The Victoria City Police Union (VCPU) is proud to introduce Sgt. Angela Van Eerd (Union President) and Sgt. Joan Elliott (Union Secretary).Hear directly from these two inspirational leaders as they join Matt Waterman to discuss their rise to important positions on the Executive of the VCPU.The VCPU was organized in 1946 and after 77 years the members have elected their first female President!Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
In celebration of Black History Month, the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU) is proud to speak with Tim Kituri who is currently serving as a Provincial appointee on the Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board.Tim came to Canada a little over 20 years ago and now resides in Esquimalt. He is originally from Kenya and tells a very unique story while living in the capital Nairobi about a specific incident where he was in fear of the police. He also shares a positive story about his first police interaction in Halifax when he was a student at University. Tim discusses some of his new experiences as a police board member over the first 9 months of his service. Learning more about who is behind the badge has given him a new appreciation for police officer dedication and commitment to the community.Here is a link to Tim's impressive educational accomplishments:https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothy1kituri/Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Erin Toplak, President of the Vancouver Island Chapter of "Beyond The Blue" joins VCPU Director and host Tom Stamatakis on this episode. Tom and Erin are life partners and share some of their own struggles of being a partner to a police officer.VI Beyond The Blue (BTB) is a non-profit organization that provides peer support to the families and spouses of police officers. BTB wants to create a safe and comfortable place for family members to reach out to and find support. Erin reminds everyone that a specific incident doesn't need to happen before you reach out to BTB and she encourages families to be pro-active in finding a strong support network.Find important links below:https://www.vancouverislandbeyondtheblue.com/info@vancouverislandbeyondtheblue.comInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/vancouverisland_btb/Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/people/Vancouver-Island-Beyond-The-Blue/100087399397694/Call direct to Canada Beyond The Blue: 1-647-249-7121Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Meet the most important “Prevention and Intervention” team in Greater Victoria that focuses on Youth Exploitation. The incomparable Mia Golden has been in the business of Youth and Family Counselling for about 30 years and is the backbone of MYST. Her current partner is Cst. Gord Magee, he brings 26 years policing experience to the team and has been attached to MYST the previous 3 years.Hear from Mia and Gord directly on what exactly their team does on a daily basis and how involved they are with youth and families being targeted by predators looking to take advantage of vulnerable youth.The Victoria City Police Union (VCPU) wants to advocate for new and increased funding streams to support this team and their mandate of protecting our children. The workload is heavy and critically important.26:45- 28:36 Hear direct from Mia on the issue of losing Police Liaison Officers in our Schools, she speaks from many different perspectives – as a youth worker in the community, as a parent, and as a black person. She recognizes the importance of building relationships with police officers ahead of a serious incident, is in her words, “so important through a trauma-informed lens.”https://www.vicnews.com/news/new-funding-aims-to-stop-predators-from-exploiting-greater-victoria-youth-653739https://pacificcentrefamilyservices.org/counselling/crime-reduction-and-exploitation-diversion/ Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Cst. Angelina "Ange" Atkinson is one of the 6 new recruits in Class #172. Ange comes to VicPD as an experienced BC Deputy Sheriff, looking to expand her law enforcement career into the policing world. She is a rare "home grown" Victorian, a graduate of Lambrick Park Secondary, the Camosun College Criminal Justice Program and also a graduate of the Greater Victoria Police Camp Program.Ange is no stranger to training at the Justice Institute of BC, she completed her Sheriff training in 2019 and returned as an use of force instructor for the Sheriff Academy in 2023. She is now halfway through her Police Academy training and really looking forward to her Block II field training in the streets of Esquimalt and Victoria.Anyone considering entering the "recruiting process" at VicPD should listen to this episode - Ange's story of perseverance and commitment to get hired is inspiring. We wish her good luck in her new career!Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
In the final episode of Season 3, we get an update from Cst. Chris Allen who has now been working for VicPD for 2 years. Chris is working in the Patrol Division; he has been passing on his experiences and knowledge as a Field Training Officer (FTO) to new recruits. Chris is a former high school teacher, and we believe well suited to be training new recruits in their Block II. Chris gives us insight into some of an operational police officer's daily functions; he shares what he does to maintain his personal wellness; and he comments on de-criminalization of drugs from a patrol officer perspective. Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
"The White Hatter" is a team of on-line professionals helping teens and their families with everything from sextortions to extensive digital literacy training. Darren Laur is a retired Staff Sergeant with 30 years service at the Victoria Police Department.The White Hatter has assisted 294 children and their families, 18 of those identify as females and the remainder teen boys – the youngest being 12 years old. The team continues to teach digital literacy and internet safety to students, parents and caregivers, businesses and organizations. Visit their website for more information: https://thewhitehatter.ca/Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
On this episode we chat with Cst. Matt King about VicPD's new OSI Dog. "Daisy" was sworn in October 2023 to be the first Operational Stress Intervention Dog at VicPD. She is a 3 yr old Golden Lab and comes from a long line of purpose bred dogs that are trained to help officers dealing with trauma and stress. Daisy came to VicPD through a partnership with Wounded Warriors Canada.Police work includes officers attending high stress incidents repeatedly over a long career and the result can often be deterioration of one's mental health. Daisy will be there to provide comfort and joy to every employee.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
The True Blue Podcast has paused releasing further episodes related to the BMO Shooting incident from 28 June 2022 that involved officers potentially facing discipline. Future episodes related to the shooting will be released when the OPCC investigation is concluded.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
You won't want to miss this episode! Mike Jarosz was 1 of 7 GVERT members inside the van that took multiple rounds from two gunmen. Mike is a TEMS Medic on the team and he shares amazing details from that horrible day. He also provides some remarkable insight into the stresses police officers have to deal with during and after a critical incident. The candidness of his psychological struggles are refreshing and speaks to why mental health supports are so important for all police officers. GVERT - Greater Victoria Emergency Response TeamTEMS - Tactical Emergency Medical SupportNTOA - National Tactical Officers Association**Trigger Warning**This episode discusses the topic of a bank robbery and shooting where 2 people died and multiple others were seriously injured, some of the content may be distressing to the listener. This series of episodes was created with the objective that talking about the subject could in part provide the listener with more information about the event from many different perspectives. It could also provide the police officers, their families and others that were involved with an avenue to come forward and talk about their experiences and to encourage others suffering from mental or emotional distress to seek trauma support by reaching out to a professional or an advocate.enter more hereSound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Ben King is a tactical member of the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team (GVERT) and took a rifle round in the leg on 28 June 2022 in an effort to keep our community safe. Hear Ben tell his story of being shot, the chaos at the scene, the heroes at the scene, the medical staff that put him and his friends back together, his long recovery to walk unassisted again. Ben shares his perspective on life and what's important and thanks his family, friends, colleagues and the community for their support.**Trigger Warning**This episode discusses the topic of a bank robbery and shooting where 2 people died and multiple others were seriously injured, some of the content may be distressing to the listener. This series of episodes was created with the objective that talking about the subject could in part provide the listener with more information about the event from many different perspectives. It could also provide the police officers, their families and others that were involved with an avenue to come forward and talk about their experiences and to encourage others suffering from mental or emotional distress to seek trauma support by reaching out to a professional or an advocate.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Hear the amazing story of Retired Sergeant Laurie White (RCMP) and her struggles to survive and persevere after being shot on duty in November 1998 while serving a search warrant at a residence in Kitimat, BC. She was air lifted to Vancouver and due to severe damage to her right leg Laurie awoke to finding out that her leg had been amputated just below her right knee. After ten painful months and numerous failures she was able to return to full uniform duty with the RCMP in Kitimat.Now 25 years later, Laurie is a proud mother of 2 children and retired from policing. She also talks about her connections and willingness to share her story with Victoria and Saanich Police Officers who suffered gunshot wounds on 28 June 2022. Her book “10-33 An Officer Down Steps Back Up” is an emotional memoir and highly recommended for supporters of law enforcement everywhere.https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-white-14643874/Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
**Trigger Warning** This episode discusses the topic of a bank robbery and shooting where 2 people died and multiple others were seriously injured, some of the content may be distressing to the listener. This series of episodes was created with the objective that talking about the subject could in part provide the listener with more information about the event from many different perspectives. It could also provide the police officers, their families and others that were involved with an avenue to come forward and talk about their experiences and to encourage others suffering from mental or emotional distress to seek trauma support by reaching out to a professional or an advocate. On this episode we hear from Dr. Mark Vu, Medical Director for Police in Greater Victoria. Today you'll hear Dr. Vu talk about the hard work he and others have committed to the past few years and how the medical training provided to police officers saved lives on 28 June 2022. Mark gives an amazing account of how much training police medics have taken on, how well they performed under stress and consequently, many lives were saved that day! He shares some great anecdotal stories from that day and the many days following this incident. So many different people that work at our hospitals are heroes and Mark does a great job of describing the amazing efforts that took place.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
**Trigger Warning** This episode discusses the topic of a bank robbery and shooting where 2 people died and multiple others were seriously injured, some of the content may be distressing to the listener. This series of episodes was created with the objective that talking about the subject could in part provide the listener with more information about the event from many different perspectives. It could also provide the police officers, their families and others that were involved with an avenue to come forward and talk about their experiences and to encourage others suffering from mental or emotional distress to seek trauma support by reaching out to a professional or an advocate. On this episode we hear from Matt Spaans, EComm 9-1-1 Dispatcher that was on duty at the very moment this terrible event unfolded. Matt, at that time, was 21 years old and responsible for the radio dispatch for Saanich Police; amazing! Matt talks about what it was like being in the background of the incident, having said that, you'll realize how important the EComm 9-1-1 staff are to police officers when high risk events take place. Gunshots rang out over the radio and the 9-1-1 system went wild!All police officers are thankful for the dedication and professionalism of Matt and all his colleagues at EComm 9-1-1. Another group of people who helped keep our community safe on that day.https://www.ecomm911.ca/join-our-team/Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
**Trigger Warning**This episode discusses the topic of a bank robbery and shooting where 2 people died and multiple others were seriously injured, some of the content may be distressing to the listener. This series of episodes was created with the objective that talking about the subject could in part provide the listener with more information about the event from many different perspectives. It could also provide the police officers, their families and others that were involved with an avenue to come forward and talk about their experiences and to encourage others suffering from mental or emotional distress to seek trauma support by reaching out to a professional or an advocate.On this episode we hear from Tom Stamatakis, Executive member of the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU). Tom describes his day from 1 year ago and goes into some of the work done by the Union after all critical incidents. On this day, Tom was also deployed with a surveillance team when his day was interrupted by news of the shooting.Upon returning to police headquarters Tom describes a state of shock he observed on police officers' faces as he walked down the hallways. Many police members needed the support of the Union in the IIO Investigation; the transition from wondering how your colleagues were doing to becoming a helpful witness is critical to a successful investigation.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
**Trigger Warning**This episode discusses the topic of a bank robbery and shooting where 2 people died and multiple others were seriously injured, some of the content may be distressing to the listener. This series of episodes was created with the objective that talking about the subject could in part provide the listener with more information about the event from many different perspectives. It could also provide the police officers, their families and others that were involved with an avenue to come forward and talk about their experiences and to encourage others suffering from mental or emotional distress to seek trauma support by reaching out to a professional or an advocate.On this episode we're joined by John Musicco, the former GVERT Tactical Team Leader, who tells his story about what took place on 28 June 2022. He was one of the six police officers shot that day and was fortunate to not be seriously physically injured. You never know what a police officer will deal with on any given shift.John's description of the events that day provide a real perspective of the obstacles police faced that horrible day. Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
VCPU Director Tom Stamatakis hosts this episode with repeat guest Cst. Mark Jenkins who serves as a "Community Resource Officer" in downtown Victoria. Mark's perspective comes from his expansive frontline experience and excellent insight into the issues the public sees and hears about. The host, Tom Stamatakis also relates his experiences after working an overtime shift in the Pandora Avenue area and how much worse things have become since he last worked on the road. Tom and Mark go into depth about Mark's recent trip to New York City which hosted a "homeless study" for police and other service providers working with homeless populations. Much of the conversation focuses on what Victoria is doing wrong and may be shocking for people to hear.Question - “Mark what are the biggest issues we face on the streets of Victoria?” Answer: “Drugs, Drugs, Drugs!”Reportedly it takes 6-9 months to get into a drug treatment bed in the Victoria area. The routine includes putting addicts asking for help back into the "wet shelter" community where drugs are widespread. New York City has a much different perspective on how to manage these issues and Mark shares some of his thoughts.What is the overall impact on the community of the large homeless encampments becoming entrenched in our parks? Mark shares a couple of stories that should enlighten the listener.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
In the 3rd and final part of this 3 part series with Retired Staff Sergeant Chris Horsley we go over a few topics that are currently in the news.The complex policing issue in Surrey BC.Amalgamation in the Greater Victoria area.Safe Supply – not a true description of what's happening on the streets.Breaching Court Orders and continued lack of accountability; resulting in police having to use firearms to bring a situation to a conclusion.Bank Robbery and shootout with Police in Saanich last year on 28 June 2022.Police Officers dealing with trauma.Police informing and educating the public through the media.Chris talks about the support for the police in Oak Bay, BC.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
In Part 2 of the series, with Retired Staff Sergeant Chris Horsley, we chat about some of the more interesting police investigations he touched during his career. Many of these have unique circumstances that highlight the difficulties police officers face regularly when investigating. Chris reflects on some the details he remembers.Topics:Peter Lee Homicide – King George TerraceRocket Scientist – Attempt Murder in SaanichDNA Submissions through GEDmatch1990 Murder of 18 yr old Cheri Lynn SmithMissing Person December 8, 1973 – Carmen RobinsonNot guilty of infanticide in 2011 – Narumi Bito2008 murder of real estate agent Lindsay BuziakRCMP Shooting investigation in Surrey, BCCatch and Release – Criminal Justice SystemBill C-48 Proposed Changes – predicts less effectiveness than being purportedCrown Counsel lack of accountabilityJudicial lack of accountabilityTreatment programs and facilities to help manage unaddressed mental health and addiction issuesSound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
We chat with Retired Staff Sergeant Chris Horsley about his career path and some of the finer details of what he got involved in while serving the community of Saanich for the 29 years.Chris was born and raised in Victoria, he credits the Police Reserve Program for creating an interest in a policing career. His experience includes spending time in School Liaison, Crime Prevention, Youth Detectives all while serving as the media relations officer in a part-time capacity for most of those years. The murder of Reena Virk was easily the most high profile and challenging case he dealt with while serving in the media role.The majority of Chris' career was spent in the Major Crime Unit and he finished his policing career as the Detective Staff Sergeant. After his retirement in February 2022, Chris was enticed to take on a "Special Municipal Constable" position with the Oak Bay Police. In his spare time you'll find him in his shop working on some of the vintage cars he treasures!Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Meet Cst. Sarah Kaufman one of the 5 new recruits in Class #170. Sarah is a former 5X World Bantamweight MMA Champion, she had an impressive 17 year career in the MMA fight world. Sarah originally went to University to become a cardiovascular surgeon but later decided that working in a laboratory wasn't going to be for her. During Sarah's fight career she spent a lot of time teaching young kids martial arts skills to help them prepare for life!Moving to a policing career became the new challenge for her and with her self-confidence and need for structure and upholding rules she committed to getting hired. Sarah has a great attitude and arrives to VicPD as a mature recruit with lot of life experience. Police use of force training has evolved over the years and due to the increase of MMA training amongst the general population, police officers need to be properly prepared.Sarah is looking forward to a diverse policing career but admits she'll never be a K-9 handler! In her spare time Sarah is an avid jig-saw puzzler and enjoys the challenge of difficult puzzles. Sarah will continue to participate in the BC Law Enforcement Memorial “Run to Remember” and encourages others to join her on Saturday 23 September for the last 11 kilometers in support of Fallen Police Officers.https://bclem.ca/5th Annual BC Law Enforcement Memorial Run to Remember – West CoastSound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Learn more about the new Co-Response Team (CRT) - a partnership between VicPD and Island Health. The CRT has been up and operational since early 2023 and is intended to be "a central response resource for calls involving presumed mental health issues."https://vicpd.ca/2023/01/30/island-health-and-vicpd-launch-co-response-team/Our guests help describe the role and effectiveness of the CRT and discuss many other aspects surrounding the challenges of mental health issues on our streets. Rob Schuckel, Coordinator of Acute Access and Crisis Response Services at Island Health and Cst. Tristan Williams (CRT officer) have great insight and experience to share with our listeners.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
The Victoria City Police Union (VCPU) is honoured to share a discussion with other Canadian Police Podcasters on this unique episode of the True Blue Podcast."10-5" - Ontario Provincial Police Association - Josh Jutras & Scott Mills"10-33" - Nathan Kapler (former RCMP)"Bend Don't Break" - Delta Police - Chief Neil Dubord"The Quiet Professional" - Edmonton Police - Nathan Romashttps://www.instagram.com/tenthirtythreeco/https://www.instagram.com/deltapd/https://www.instagram.com/edmontonpoliceassociation/https://www.instagram.com/oppassociation/Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Daryl Baswick interviews Staff Sergeant Jennifer Ames in this fantastic episode. Jen talks about her time in the Homicide Unit and the day she got a confession from the killer - but don't stop listening - she gets another confession for a previous murder as well! (Traigo Andretti — convicted for the 2013 homicide of Jennifer McPherson, to whom he was married, and for the 2006 killing of Myrna Letandre — he later died by suicide in his cell in a Saskatchewan psychiatric facility.)S/Sgt. Ames is a 27 year member and currently assigned to the Professional Standards Unit at VicPD. Jen is also the VicPD representative on the Greater Victoria Police Diversity Advisory Committee; when you hear her background and experience you'll know why.We also learn that Jen (as well as other VicPD members) have taken to Beekeeping in their spare time - fascinating to hear her talk about the life of the beehive. She shares her thoughts and insights on topics like Harm Reduction, drug investigations, what female police officers face in their career, how much dedication and love goes into being involved in the Tour de Rock event and her personal experiences of police managing PTSD. As a Watch Commander in Patrol, Jen observed numerous times where police officers would deal with multiple traumatic incidents in their shift.This episode is dedicated to the memory of René Soto-Taylor. RIPhttps://www.timescolonist.com/local-news/victoria-boy-had-9-short-years-lived-to-the-fullest-4625753Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Angela Van Eerd and Fiona Ford take over hosting duties of the True Blue Podcast and decide to interview regular host Matt Waterman.Matt served VicPD from 1991-2022 and is most proud of his 15 years of service on the Executive of the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU).Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
We chat with Chantal Ziegler as her 33 years of policing is coming to an end. Chantal joined the RCMP in 1990 at 21 years old, she attended her basic training at Depot in Regina as part of an all French speaking troop. Upon graduating, the RCMP decided to post her to the small Hamlet of Evansburg, Alberta an all English and Portuguese community! One of her favourite memories in the RCMP was being trained for the Musical Ride and being posted to Banff where she was photographed for the front page of National Geographic. In 1999, Chantal joined the Calgary Police Service. More importantly she met her future husband at the Calgary Stampede! After a few years in Calgary, Chantal relocated to Victoria and joined VicPD. Chantal enjoyed working in Esquimalt as the Community Resource Officer (CRO), in the Detective Division as the Missing Persons Coordinator, as an ACT (Assertive Community Treatment) Officer, as an Under Cover Officer (UCO) and with the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team (GVERT) as a Crisis Negotiator.Chantal plans to be back working soon but not before she travels to Spain to trek on the Camino Trails. We wish her luck in her post policing career.https://followthecamino.com/en/camino-de-santiago-routes/Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
We talk basketball with Cst. Jenna Carver and celebrate 50 years of high school basketball tournaments put on by the Victoria City Police Athletic Association (VCPAA).Jenna played college basketball for the VIU Mariners and grew up in Nanaimo, BC. She headed the organizing committee this year on behalf of the VCPAA and hopes to grow the tournament over the next 50 years!The VCPAA also hosts a local high school golf tournament and provides scholarships to student athletes for their post-secondary education.The Athletic Association would like to thank the following groups for their support of this years' tournament: Greater Victoria Police Foundation; VicPD Reserve Officer Program; St. Michaels University School; Passion Sports; Showcase Awards; Referees from Basketball Victoria.https://www.facebook.com/VCPAthleticAssociation/Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Get to know the 2023 VicPD Spokesperson a bit better in this episode. Cst. Terri Healy has been a police officer for the past 14 years. She is a mother of two and loves working with and for the public. Terri discusses the mindset required to be a new mom and returning to police work after 18 months off the road and everything that could come with that. We spend a few minutes hearing Terri's opinions related to some of the dehumanizing behaviour she's experienced while wearing a police uniform. Hear Terri's thoughts on the necessity of police humour and funny stories from the street. We also get into some thoughtful comments about member wellness and resiliency.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
The President and new Vice-President of the Victoria City Police Union joined us in studio to talk about 2022 in review. Len Hollingsworth has now completed his 2nd of a 3 year term as President and Dave Jorgensen was recently acclaimed as the new Vice President of the Union replacing S/Sgt. Mike Johnston. We thank Mike for his service to the members of the Union and send him good wishes for his retirement.Municipal Elections, Contract Bargaining, a Police Board resignation, recruiting & retention, the June 28th bank robbery, as well as updates from the BC Police Association and the Canadian Police Association are all covered in this episode.We also wrap up with our choices of best episodes in 2022.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Former Police Officer Elenore Sturko joins us in studio to talk about her recent election to the Provincial Legislature and becoming the new representative for the residents of Surrey South. Elenore has a very diverse background and appears to be ready for her new position as MLA. Her experiences in policing make her a valuable asset to the official opposition which continues to hold the government accountable on important issues such as public safety. https://twitter.com/elenoresturko Interview Details:2:30 Family influence to join the RCMP4:20 Worked in TV and Radio4:40 Served in the Royal Canadian Air Force4:55 Joined the RCMP – working in Langley first7:50 Would love to become the Sol. Gen.9:00 Describes involvement in police media relations and then to the Diversity Unit13:25 LGTQB rights in the RCMP – story about Sgt. Dave Van Norman19:11 Coming out as Lesbian in her early 20's and the stigma attached to that23:00 Published her uncle's diary about his police experiences and donates the proceeds to residential school survivors and young students in Nunavut schools31:15 Discussion about being elected and the skills a former police officer brings to the role35:30 Gang violence and the out of control illicit drug trade37:00 Overdose deaths and lack of access to treatment41:54 Mental Health Outreach Teams – need police to be involved47:00 Recent announcement by NDP Government to reduce chronic repeat offenders?52:40 Updated Crown directive regarding bail conditions and charge approval59:00 David Eby tries to tell people “he hit the ground running” – Elenore has her doubtsSound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
We get to know Sgt. Joan Elliott a bit better on this episode. Her current assignment is to manage the difficult job of recruiting new officers, jail guards, special constables and reserves. Joan has served her Country as a member of the Canadian Armed Forces; she played rugby in university and after watching the TV show “Cops” she decided to apply at VicPD in October 2000.Her career includes time in Patrol, the Mountain Bike Squad, Detectives, Regional Crime Unit, and the Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit. Joan enjoyed the change of scenery when she worked in integrated units around Greater Victoria. Joan was also a long time member of the Public Safety Unit (PSU) and specialized in the tactical less lethal squad and the search team.Joan shares some personal insight into being a mom and police officer working shift work while being married to another police officer. The VicPD recruiting process can be lengthy and challenging but Joan takes time to highlight the positive work environment she's enjoyed and great support from the community.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Sgt. Musicco currently serves as the Tactical Team Leader of the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team (GVERT). We're happy that he recently joined us in studio to chat about how he and his team are doing after a very busy and traumatic past few months. Six tactical team members were wounded by gunfire on 28 June 2022 in Saanich. The GVERT serves Victoria, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay and Central Saanich.JJ has spent 13 of his 18 years of policing in uniform on the front lines, and his service on the tactical unit of GVERT has been 12 years. He believes that police officers who choose to join GVERT are making an extraordinary commitment to their community. GVERT deals with many high stress and potentially very traumatic events anytime of the day and every day of the year. JJ talks about some of his feelings surrounding the resolution of the high-end critical incident on 28 June 2022. Every day the GVERT is an important line of defense in keeping the citizens of Greater Victoria sheltered from violence, and unfortunately even with great training and preparation some members of GVERT suffered life altering injuries on that day. GVERT and many other police officers who responded that day need to be recognized as heroes – they kept us safe!Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
While attending the 2022 BC Police and Peace Officers' Memorial Weekend in Victoria, we got a chance to speak with Sgt. Mark McKinnell, President of the Delta Police Association. Mark has worked in Victoria and Esquimalt during his 21 years of policing but has served the remainder of his time with the Delta Police Department. Mark grew up in Campbell River, BC but seems to like mainland life more!Mark and his Delta Police Association executive finalized their collective agreement (CA) in 2022 and he believes Delta members now have the best CA in Canada. Delta Police officers enjoy a very supportive relationship with their Mayor, Council and Police Board. Sgt. McKinnell is currently seconded to CFSEU and specifically the Covert Asset Support Team which provides support to police agencies throughout the province needing help or resources for complex investigations. Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Sergeant Joan Elliott outlines the Victoria Police Department's recruiting process for new recruits and for experienced officers looking to work in Victoria and Esquimalt. She mentions that VicPD is hiring for Civilian positions and often needs to replace Jail Guards, SMC's and Reserve volunteers, so go to https://vicpd.ca/joinvicpd/ to learn more about all the opportunities.VicPD offers very competitive wages and benefits, good long-term opportunities for promotion and a good variety of work within the different sections of the department. There is a positive and fun work environment in the building and around Victoria and Esquimalt you'll meet lots of fantastic citizens who support the police.https://vicpd.ca/joinvicpd/sworn/https://vicpd.ca/joinvicpd/civilians/Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
We hear from Detective Sergeant Dean Jantzen of the Saanich Police Association and current Councillor for The City of Colwood. Dean has over 26 years service in policing and 4 years of experience in his current Council position. We talk about some highlights of his police career and even more about his community involvement and vision for Colwood as he stands for re-election.Dean's experience as the media relations officer for the Saanich Police and 10 years of service on the Executive of the Saanich Police Association provide him solid knowledge that relates to work as a Municipal Councillor. He's campaigning on a public safety platform of course which compliments the other great work being done at Colwood Council.To learn more about Dean go to:https://deanjantzen.ca/https://www.facebook.com/councillorjantzen/https://twitter.com/deanforcolwoodor send him an email at: deanforcolwood@gmail.com Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Two frontline police officers talk about knowing you're pregnant and when might be the best time to notify the employer to ensure a safe work environment for yourself and your child. Both Chloe Staiger and Jaclyn Flaten share their experiences relating to the Collective Agreement benefits and some of the challenges others might face when becoming a mom on Patrol.The Victoria City Police Union is committed to enhancing the Maternity/Paternity benefit package in the Collective Agreement and working with the employer to ensure VicPD is a preferred employer for those wanting to be parents.Jaclyn reveals the name of her unborn daughter on this podcast, and we wish her all the best on her maternity leave. Chloe is returning to frontline policing as this episode is launched and we wish her safe shifts.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
In Part 2 of this episode, Todd talks about the challenges of dealing with his Work Safe BC claim while managing his anxiety, depression and paranoia. Todd also says, “I want to de-stigmatize mental health injuries that we all get at work, we need to change the culture, if you're struggling, you're not alone, you need to reach out and talk to someone.” Todd's recovery and road back to work included an 8 week residential treatment program at the Homewood Ravensview facility. He learned a number of skills and methods that will help him deal with his anxiety and paranoid thoughts in the future. https://ravensview.com/Lastly Todd goes into detail about the court process he participated in as a victim and the eventual sentence the offender was handed.“It is impossible for police officers to maintain law and order unless they enjoy the support of the public and unless they are seen to have the solid backing of the courts when they are entitled to it. It is absolutely essential that all members of the public understand that violence against police officers in the course of their duties will be severely sanctioned.” – Justice Eric F. MacklinSound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Cst. Todd Mason talks about dealing with a challenging situation in his negotiator role only 2 weeks before being rundown by a stolen car on Pandora Ave on September 27, 2021. Not only did he suffer physical injuries but the mental and emotional effects of both incidents were just as devastating. Todd talks about the lack of support from Victoria City Council and other factors that contributed to a long and dark few months after the incident. Later in this episode, Todd goes into detail about what he remembers after being hit by the car and how he thought he was going to die.Part 2 of Todd's interview will be out soon where he talks about the challenges of dealing with life after a severely traumatic incident and his residential treatment program at Homewood Ravensview.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Meet 2 police officers riding in the 25th Anniversary Tour de Rock event. The ride spans the length of Vancouver Island and takes place between 24 September and 7 October 2022. Constable Tristan Williams of VicPD and Retired Saanich Inspector Trent Edwards are two members of this year's team. Hear from them about what inspired them to participate in the event.Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock is an exciting annual event where law enforcement and emergency services personnel raise money for childhood cancer research and support services at the Canadian Cancer Society. Please support Tristan and Trent at the attached links:https://www.tourderock.ca/dt_team/tristan-williams/https://www.tourderock.ca/dt_team/trent-edwards/https://twitter.com/@TourdeRockhttps://www.instagram.com/tourderock_/?hl=enhttps://www.facebook.com/CopsTourdeRockSound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
The True Blue Podcast is proud to introduce Cst. Elle Hamilton, one of our two new recruits in Class #168 that will be training this Spring/Summer at the Police Academy. Elle was born and raised in Victoria and she continues a legacy of Hamilton's in policing as both her parents were members of the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU). She attended University in Tiffin, Ohio for 5 years on an athletic scholarship, playing Lacrosse for the Dragons! She studied Forensic Psychology obtaining a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and in her 5th year she completed a master's degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Leadership and Change.Elle had some experience working as a student intern while in the US and even worked security at Cleveland Browns games. She also worked as a Parking Ambassador for the City of Victoria during her summer breaks from school. Before being hired at VicPD in a full-time role she also completed the Reserve Police Program in preparation for her Justice Institute training.You can expect Elle to continue her connection with Lacrosse in Victoria by participating in coaching other young students. https://www.tiffin.edu/Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
We are joined by Jason Whittaker, President of the Saanich Police Association and Len Hollingsworth, President of the Victoria City Police Union for a discussion on what took place in Saanich on 28 June 2022. Both organizations are working together to support the 6 officers injured in this incident. Emergency medical care and bravery were paramount on the day. Member wellness and recovery are what's down the road for the Saanich Police Association and the Victoria City Police Union; it will be a marathon as described so nicely by Jason Whittaker.In a joint effort, the "Stronger Together" campaign on GoFundMe has been a rousing success and speaks to the community support for the officers and their families. The attached link is available for anyone wishing to make a donation to this worthy cause. https://gofund.me/6b77df55Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Host Tom Stamatakis is passionate about Mental Health Wellness in Policing, and he was super thankful to interview Dr. Tim Black, Counselling Psychologist and Associate Professor at the University of Victoria. Some of Dr. Black's focus is on First Responder Trauma and he recently provided instruction to several VCPU members in Trauma and Resiliency Training (TRT). Dr. Black's program is a partnership with Wounded Warriors Canada. https://woundedwarriors.ca/our-programs/trauma-resiliency-training-trt/Tim wants First Responders to understand what Trauma is, what PTSD is, how you get diagnosed and lastly how your employer/workplace treats people suffering from Trauma. His goal of educating employers and staff to better know what to look for and how to respond to maximize the treatment response. Stigmatization is always a huge barrier and the teaching model of Peer to Peer has proven effective to getting employees to take steps to get better rather than hiding their trauma. What is Trauma? Exposed to an event where there is actual or threatened death, actual or threatened serious violence or actual or threatened sexual violence. “So much of policing is daily exposure to traumatic events” – Dr. Tim Black.https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-black-32208310/https://www.facebook.com/WoundedWarriorsCanadaSound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
Dr. Mark Vu has been serving as the Medical Director with VicPD since 2016. His expertise has been so important in developing programs and improving equipment at VicPD and ultimately has provided enhanced medical care and improved overall member safety.Dr. Vu has been training all Patrol officers on basic medical care and also concentrates on making sure on duty police have access to advanced medical support while deployed at critical incidents. He is an anesthesiologist at local hospitals and has been a massive asset at VicPD helping us navigate the COVID pandemic.25:20 - Comments on the Fentanyl Crisis40:30 - Dr. Bonnie Henry41:45 - Todd thanks Dr. Vu for his efforts46:45 - Dr. Vu suits up in a CS Gas training environmenthttps://twitter.com/drmarkvuhttps://ca.linkedin.com/in/mark-vu-07679835Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
We're joined by Sgt. Steve Kowan who was the VicPD 2022 representative for the Wounded Warrior Run that takes place on Vancouver Island in late February. Steve and a number of his family members are police veterans, including his uncle, Sgt. Larry Young, who was killed in the line of duty while serving on the Emergency Response Team with Vancouver Police. https://vpd.ca/about-the-vpd/history/in-memoriam/fallen-officers/#larry-youngSgt. Daryl Baswick also joins us for this interview and was a participant in the run in 2020.Steve talks about some of his memories from visiting small towns on Vancouver Island and some of the motivation he had for participating in the run. Meeting other first responders and military veterans who suffer from trauma related injuries was inspiring for Steve. PTSD is known as the silent injury that can have a devastating effect on family as well. https://woundedwarriors.ca/Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU): - Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union - Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/ - Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/ - Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/ - Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast
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