York Regional Police deputy chief in charge of investigations set to retire

Deputy Chief Brian Bigras part of slew of retirements that has hit York Regional Police over past 5 years

Yorkregion.com
July 20, 2022
Jeremy Grimaldi

Another deputy chief that many had tapped for the role of police chief one day has left York Regional Police, this time without another job in mind, it appears.

Deputy Chief Brian Bigras, the former holdup and drugs and vice investigator, who was in charge of investigations including homicide, intelligence and holdup at York Regional Police, has announced his retirement from the force as of September 2022.

The retirement comes three years after former deputy chief Thomas Carrique left York Regional Police to become Commissioner of the OPP.

Prior to his exit, many expected him to be former chief Eric Jolliffe’s replacement as chief.

Bigras leaves the force after 32 years of service in roles that spanned the gamut, starting in uniformed patrol before eventually becoming commander in charge of York police’s organized crime and intelligence services, before being named deputy in 2019.

He was well-known for his efforts in combating organized crime, representing York Regional Police on several specialty integrated units in the GTA and nationally.

In a news release, Bigras praised the organization and reflected on his time in uniform.

"I joined York Regional Police as a 19-year-old recruit who wanted to make a positive impact on my community," he said. "Over the past three decades, I’ve had the opportunity to do just that -- and so much more. I am so grateful to have served with an organization that is truly dedicated to its community and its members. I’m proud to have supported York Regional Police as it continued to grow and evolve to meet the needs of our region. I couldn’t have selected a better organization to dedicate my policing career and I thank all those have inspired me along the way."

His contribution was also feted by Chief Jim MacSween

"It has been an honour and a privilege to have worked alongside Brian,” MacSween said. "I admire his incredible passion for the profession of policing and to supporting our members and community. I am so thankful for his leadership, professionalism and friendship over these many years."

York Regional Police has lost hundreds of senior officers over the past five years as a result of the organization doubling in size between 1984 and 1990.

With those retirements, the force has lost an unprecedented amount of experience and has been working hard to recruit the next generation of police and promote current ranks to fill roles.

The York Region Police Services Board will begin selecting a new deputy to replace Bigras in the coming weeks.

Bigras did not reply to requests for comment.