Chief CookThe North Bay Police Service welcomes a new chief and deputy chief today (Friday).

Police Chief Paul Cook is retiring with a change of command ceremony set for later this morning.

Cook says he’s proud of the many community partnerships formed during his time as chief, the Gateway Hub which offers early intervention and supports for at risk people and families, the Mobile Crisis Team and the Patch4Patch Fentanyl program.

He also points to hosting the Special Olympics Ontario Winter Games, having officers assist at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, G-8 and G-20 Summits along with two officers going on missions to Afghanistan to work with police there.

Deputy Chief Shawn Devine is taking over as chief in today’s change of command ceremony.

Cook says the police service is in good hands.

He says Devine is a bright, young leader who was raised in North Bay and is very committed to the community and the police service.

Former OPP Deputy Commissioner Scott Tod is also being sworn in today as Deputy Police Chief.