A change of command at NRP
Chief Bill Fordy and deputy chiefs Todd Waselovich and Luigi Greco formally introduced
With pomp and circumstance, Niagara Regional Police formally introduced its new leadership team — chief Bill Fordy and deputy chiefs Todd Waselovich and Luigi Greco — at a formal change of command ceremony Wednesday at Ridley College’s Memorial Chapel.
Jen Lawson, chair of the police services board, told a crowd of friends, family and police colleagues in full-dress uniforms, including senior officers from as far away as British Columbia, that the region can count on an NRP executive command with more than 85 years of combined policing experience.
“Each of you has already proven you are prepared for the challenges that lie ahead and are ready to accept the immense responsibilities that come along with being a chief of police and the deputy chiefs,” Lawson said before presenting them with their new badges.
Lawson said the best leaders bring vision and hope, and, as an organization, Niagara Regional Police must continue to look into the future and find efficient and effective ways to serve the public.
The police board appointed Fordy to his new role on Feb. 1, followed by Greco and Waselovich on March 4 in a complete top-rank turnover.
Fordy, who served as deputy chief of support services since joining the NRP in 2017, replaces retired chief Bryan MacCulloch. Greco steps into Fordy’s role while Waselovich replaces retired Brett Flynn as deputy chief of operations.
Fordy joined the NRP in 2017 after nearly three decades with the RCMP in British Columbia, including serving as the commanding officer of Surrey, the largest mounted police detachment in Canada.
“Suffice it to say that I’ve been very fortunate to work with lots of people, many of whom were fully committed to bringing closure to families that have lost a loved one, to the relentless pursuit of dark-hearted criminals, to bringing communities together, and to serving others,” said Fordy.
“I’m thankful for everything they taught me. Some of those people were police officers. Some were community leaders and, indeed, some were elected officials.”
Fordy played in the Ontario Hockey League and briefly as a professional after being drafted by the Hartford Whalers before joining the RCMP.
He received a commendation for outstanding service in investigating the disappearance of women from the metro Vancouver area. As the main interviewer of the suspect, Robert Pickton, Fordy played a significant role in developing the evidence-gathering strategies that eventually led to his conviction.
Fordy ended his speech by affirming his commitment to the Indigenous community. The NRP has been under fire recently for its handling of the disappearance and death of a 32-year-old Indigenous man in St. Catharines, Johnny Cronkwright.
“We cannot dispute the fact that we went into homes and we took Indigenous children from their families, and we took them to residential schools, and some of those children never went home — but while we cannot undo that, we can create a better path forward.”
Fordy asked people in attendance to think about their role while trying to walk the path toward reconciliation.
“I also invite you to think about how you might use the privileges that have been afforded to you, privileges that have not been provided to others, to think, learn and take meaningful action.”
Greco started on the NRP’s ground floor, beginning his career in 1997 as an auxiliary member and special constable. From there, he served as a uniform patrol officer in St. Catharines, Niagara Falls and Grimsby before supervising street crime, criminal investigations, mobile surveillance, morality/guns, gangs and grows, major crime and communications units.
“As deputy chief, I’m acutely aware of the weight of responsibility that comes with this position, and I accept this challenge with humility, determination, and a deep sense of duty to our community and our members,” Greco said.
“I stand here today proud to be part of the new command team with chief Fordy and deputy chief Waselovich as we continue to strive for excellence in delivering police services to the residents and visitors.”
Waselovich held operational and senior leadership roles in district operations, emergency task unit, street crime, domestic violence, opioid enforcement and education, labour relations and professional development. He holds a bachelor’s degree from University of Windsor, a labour relations certificate from Queen’s University IRC, and completed University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management executive program in police leadership.
All three thanked their families. Waselovich addressed his daughters directly.
“I would not be standing here today if it wasn’t for your unwavering love and support,” Waselovich said. “Many times over the years, I was unable to make family or sporting events because of my responsibilities at work.
“Your understanding of my dedication to my career cannot be overstated, but I want you to know that if I was asked who I am most proud of, it’s you. I love you very much.”