There’s a new face at the top of the LaSalle police department.
There’s a new face at the top of the LaSalle police service.
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Michael Pearce, a seasoned veteran with more than two decades of policing experience in Chatham-Kent and York Region, was named Friday as the service’s new top cop.
“It is with profound appreciation and humility that I join the LaSalle police service,” chief designate Pearce said in a statement.
“I am delighted to work with an impressive team of professionals. Together, we will advance member development and wellness, community inclusion, and technological innovation. I wish to extend my gratitude to the LaSalle police services board for placing their trust in me.”
Pearce, known for his long-standing community involvement, including minor sports, joined Chatham-Kent police in 2007, starting in community patrol.
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Two years later, he became the service’s first public information officer, pioneering the use of social media for local law enforcement.
In 2012, he moved to the traffic unit and sat on the board of directors for MADD Chatham-Kent for six years.
Promoted to sergeant in 2016, he supervised front-line officers, investigated public complaints and assisted with recruitment.
In 2020, he became a staff sergeant, serving as manager of professional standards, training and development, recruiting and media relations.
The following year, Pearce rose to the rank of inspector and assumed command of the community patrol branch, overseeing front-line operations, traffic, marine, police dogs, community mobilization, community services, youth co-ordinator, mobile crisis team, critical incident response team, and the auxiliary program.
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His education includes a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies from York University and a master’s degree in public administration from Western University.
He is a graduate of the police leadership program at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management, and is also a member of the Human Resources Professional Association.
“As mayor, I am confident that chief designate Pearce will continue to uphold our town’s values of integrity, accountability, and transparency within the police department, and I look forward to working closely with him to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents of the Town of LaSalle,” LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche said in a statement.
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Pearce replaces LaSalle Chief Duncan Davies, who is set to retire Oct. 1 after a 33-year career.
In a statement Friday, Chatham-Kent police expressed “mixed emotions,” but wished the departing inspector well.
“Inspector Pearce has been an incredible leader during his time with Chatham Kent police,” the statement read. “His dedication, expertise, and commitment to serving our community have made a significant impact. We are incredibly proud of his accomplishments and the positive influence he has had on our team and the community.
“We would like to extend our warmest congratulations and best wishes to Inspector Pearce as he embarks on this new chapter in his career. His appointment as LaSalle’s next police chief is a testament to his exceptional leadership qualities and the respect he has earned throughout his career.”
Details regarding a change-of-command ceremony will be released at a later date.
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