WELLINGTON COUNTY – The OPP has named Inspector Paul Richardson as the new Wellington County detachment commander.
Richardson officially took over as commander on Aug. 5, after serving as the interim commander here for about 10 months.
He has been with the OPP for 20 years and spent his entire career in Bruce County prior to coming to Wellington.
Richardson replaces past commander Scott Lawson, who retired last November.
Richardson “worked frontline policing as a constable and sergeant and spent a considerable amount of time patrolling the waters of Lake Huron as a member of the South Bruce Marine Unit, as well as completed a secondment in the Crime Unit,” states the Sept. 2 press release from the OPP.
“Inspector Richardson brings with him a wealth of policing experience and knowledge and we are pleased to welcome him to Wellington County.”
Richardson called it “an honour and privilege” to be a member of the Wellington detachment.
“I look forward to the opportunity of working with our community partners in an effort to heighten public safety, while enhancing public trust in these uncertain times and supporting our officers,” he stated.
Warden Kelly Linton welcomed Richardson at the Sept. 9 County of Wellington Police Services Board meeting.
“The county is pleased to have been part of the selection process for this important role,” LInton stated.
“With his extensive policing background and dedication to providing the best possible policing service to all citizens, Inspector Richardson will be a great asset to our community.”
Joanne Ross-Zuj, chair of the Police Services Board, said Richardson “has a strong understanding of the local policing and brings top leadership and management skills to his new role.”
She added, “I’m sure Paul will continue in the tradition of top flight inspectors that the county has been blessed with over the last 20 years.”
