After three decades in policing, London's top cop is calling it a career.
The London Police Services Board announced on Tuesday Chief Steve Williams will retire from the police service by next spring.
“It has been my privilege and honour to serve our community as a police officer for over 30 years," Williams said in a statement. “I have profound respect and admiration for each and every member of this service, as they consistently demonstrate professionalism and perseverance despite the enormous demands and expectations placed upon them, particularly over the last several years."
Williams has been London's police chief since 2019. He joined the service in 1992 and worked in several different areas of the force, including patrol operations, major crime, professional standards, and human resources. In 2015, Williams was appointed deputy chief, a rank he held for four years until he was promoted to chief. During his 31 years in policing, Williams received several commendations for drug and homicide investigations and in 2010 was awarded the Award of Merit from the Ontario Homicide Investigators Association.
Police Board Chair Susan Toth applauded Williams' "unprecedented and extraordinary" leadership during his time as chief.
"Shortly after he began, he had to immediately demonstrate his commitment, engagement and action on issues of anti-Black racism and equity," said Toth. "Next, he faced a global pandemic, which in turn aggravated a community in crisis due to mental health, addiction and homelessness with inadequate community resources to meet these complex social needs."
Toth also touched on the profound loss, devastation, and trauma Williams dealt with in the wake of the 2021 attack on the Afzaal family.
"Chief Williams showed thoughtfulness, vision, and an unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of the London community and to every member of the London Police Service. His willingness to engage in difficult issues head on, and extensive experience and dedication to his profession will be deeply missed," said Toth.
Williams last day on the job has not yet been determined, but it will be before his contract ends on May 1 due to accrued time, the board said.
The search for a new police chief will begin in the very near future, the board added.