Peel police chief retires after 35-year career

Catney has led force since 1997 Honoured twice as officer of the year

The search is underway for a new Peel police chief after Noel Catney’s decision to retire at the end of this year.

Catney, 55, told members of Peel’s Police Services Board yesterday that he would be stepping down as of Dec. 31.

Peel’s top cop signed a twoyear contract extension in June. No reason for his decision to retire has been given, although Catney spent several weeks in hospital last October after suffering a concussion, scrapes and bruises in a fall at his home. Deputy Chief Mike Metcalf replaced Catney for several months until he returned to full duty earlier this year.

Catney, Peel’s fourth police chief, has led the force since April 24, 1997.

“ It has been such a privilege and indeed an honour to lead the men and women of the Peel Regional Police,” Catney said in a statement released yesterday.

“ Equally, it has been an honour to have the opportunity to serve the residents of Peel for the past 35 years, since my first day as a constable.

“ I am very proud of every uniform and civilian member of our police service. I know they will continue to set the benchmark for professionalism, dedication and excellence for the delivery of police service for years to come.”

Catney has spent more than 35 years in policing.

His career started with the Mississauga police force in 1970, which was amalgamated into the Peel police force Jan. 1, 1974. He spent 61⁄ years in homicide and has also served in Peel’s intelligence bureau. Catney has been honoured twice as police officer of the year ( 1983 and 1984) and was awarded a Police Services Board Commendation for his role in the Barbara Turnbull attempted murder investigation.

“ Noel Catney has been a tremendous chief of police for our police service,” board chair Emil Kolb said in a prepared statement.

“ In my mind, perhaps Noel’s most impressive personal accomplishment was his ability to connect with our community. Whether it was a specific ethnic group or working with the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, Noel has a knack for making a personal connection . . . that goes well beyond the role of a traditional police chief,” Kolb said.

Catney is expected to be asked to serve on the board, he added.