Farquharson named chief in Port Hope

Deputy leaving Peterborough police in March after 36 years

Deputy Chief Tim Farquharson is retiring from the Peterborough Police Service to become the new police chief of the Port Hope Police Service.

Farquharson is stepping down March 1 after more than 36 years of “dedicated service” with city police, Peterborough Police Services Board chair Mary ten Doeschate announced Wednesday.

Farquharson will become chief in Port Hope on March 1, the Port Hope Police Services Board also announced Wednesday, replacing Bryant Wood who is retiring after a 30-year policing career, mostly in Port Hope.

“I am leaving incredible people and a great police service to start with another great police service that has established positive partnerships with the OPP, Cobourg Police Service and Peterborough Police Service,” Farquharson stated in a press release.

“Leadership is about people, and I

look forward to learning from members of the board, partners, and the community.”

Farquharson started as a constable with the then Peterborough Lakefield Community Police Service (now Peterborough Police Service) in 1986.

His assignments over the 36 years include front line and community patrol, criminal investigations, intelligence, drug unit and support services, at all ranks.

He was named deputy chief in July 2013. Between Feb. 7, 2022 and Jan. 9, 2023, he served as acting chief between the sudden retirement of former chief Scott Gilbert and the first day on the job for new Chief Stuart Betts, a former deputy chief of the London Police Service who was hired following a national search.

Betts congratulated Farquharson on Wednesday. “His presence here will be missed and there’s no question we’ll continue our great working relationship that will benefit both communities,” Betts stated.

Throughout his career, Farquharson has been an advocate and has worked tirelessly to develop supports and raise awareness on issues related to homelessness, mental health and addiction, according to a press release from the police board.

For the last five years, Farquharson helped organize, in collaboration with Peterborough Cares, the Stand With Tim fundraising event, raising thousands of dollars for local homeless shelters.

Last year, money went to the United Way of Peterborough and District’s Backpacks for Success program and the New Canadians Centre, which helps support immigrants, refugees and other newcomers in the Peterborough-Northumberland regions.

“Deputy Farquharson has been an excellent ambassador for both the Peterborough Police Service and the Peterborough Community for many years,” Doeschate stated in a press release.

“The Peterborough Police Services Board acknowledges and thanks Farquharson for his exemplary dedication to serving the citizens of Peterborough, Township of Cavan Monaghan and Village of Lakefield over the past 36 years.

In 2016, Farquharson was inducted into the Order of Merit of the Police Services by then governor general David Johnston for his role in creating the Peterborough Drug Strategy Task Force and has been the recipient of several awards and honours related to exemplary service and leadership in policing.

“My commitment is to keep the community safe,” Farquharson stated.

“To make that happen, it starts with each member of the police service. Humility is knowing I can’t do it alone and I always remember that I need the team more than they need me. I am excited to engage and collaborate with my community partners, (including the) HBIA, citizens, sworn and civilian members and the board. I have been blessed (to have) my entire career in policing.”