I retired after 35 years as a RCMP officer and entered politics. I won the bye election in 2017 and was successful in my reelection bid in 2018.
I was born and raised in Saskatchewan but since joining the RCMP, have lived in different parts of British Columbia including two postings in Nanaimo. I chose to retire here not only because my parents lived here but in my opinion, it is the best place in Canada for many reasons.
While employed with the Force, I was awarded the Queen's Jubilee medal for community service as well as the Commanding Officer's commendation for my work with the first Nations communities I have served. The Tsleil Waututh Nation in North Vancouver honoured me with a naming ceremony where I was given a First Nations name. Upon returning to Nanaimo in 2010, I was the non-commissioned officer in charge of Community Policing where I worked with many organizations and communities which gave me a better understanding of many issues facing Nanaimo. Being a member of the Nanaimo Fentanyl Overdose Prevention group gave me a grasp on the crisis this drug is bringing to our community.
Currently, I volunteer as the chairperson for the Dufferin Place Family Council and as the secretary for the Vancouver Island Family Councils. In my spare time, I like to golf, fish, spend time with family and friends, and I am a member of the Bastion City Probus Club