The Cobourg Police Service Board has announced Chief Superintendent Chris Leather as the next Chief of Cobourg police.
Leather will officially begin his new role June 1, bringing more than 36 years of policing experience, including 21 years with the RCMP and 15 years with York Regional Police.
Most recently, Leather served as Chief Superintendent and Criminal Operations Officer for the RCMP’s Central Region in Ontario, overseeing major criminal investigations and federal policing operations involving organized crime, cybercrime, national security, financial crime and border integrity.
According to the Police Service Board, Leather also held several senior leadership positions during his career, including serving as Acting Commanding Officer in Nova Scotia and leading modernization initiatives at RCMP National Headquarters.
Board Chair Adam Bureau said Leather brings significant experience in public safety, accountability and community partnerships that align with policing priorities in Cobourg.
The Board also thanked outgoing Chief Paul VandeGraaf for his leadership and service during the transition process.
In a statement, Leather said he was honoured to join the Cobourg Police Service and praised the professionalism and community trust built by current members of the service.
He said his priorities will include public safety, community engagement, member wellness and ensuring the service continues adapting to the changing needs of the community.
Leather holds degrees from both York University and Western University and has completed executive leadership training through the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management, the Ontario Police College and the RCMP Executive Development Program.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
