The Prince Albert Grand Council is welcoming the appointment of Jason Stonechild as the new Deputy Chief for the Prince Albert Police Service.

Stonechild of Cree ancestry was sworn into the position Monday, yet he was the Acting Deputy Chief since July.

“This is a key appointment that will help to ensure that diversity and inclusivity drive key administrative and policy decisions in Prince Albert. For PAGC, having Indigenous representation at its highest levels means more clearer and balanced approaches to addressing complex socio-economic, cultural and racial issues facing our Indigenous people who are grossly over-represented in our overall justice system,” said PAGC Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte in a statement.

“Building and maintaining positive relations with the PAPS is even more strengthened with the appointment of Sheryl Kimbley to the Prince Albert Board of Police Commissioners. Each of these changes is encouraging signs that our police service is heading in a positive direction, and I am confident we are on the right track to ensuring a climate of safety, security and mutual respect for every citizen of Prince Albert who calls this city home.”

Stonechild has been with the Prince Albert Police since 1993.

(PHOTO: PAGC Vice Chief Joseph Tsannie, PAPS Deputy Chief Jason Stonechild, PAGC Director of Justice Rick Sanderson, and PAGC Director of Urban Services Geoff Despins.  Photo courtesy of Tina Pelletier/PAGC)