OPP Commissioner Fantino congratulates successor

ORILLIA, ON, July 7 /CNW/ - Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Commissioner Julian Fantino has sent his congratulations to his successor, OPP Deputy Commissioner Chris Lewis, who was announced as the 14th leader of the OPP by Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty this morning.

"It is a great honour and also a challenge to lead a diverse and complex police organization like the OPP. I wish Deputy Lewis the best and I will do everything I can to ensure a smooth transition and the continuing success of this great organization," said Fantino, who will retain command until the end of July.

"The OPP celebrated its 100th anniversary last year. I have said often that anyone in a leadership position at the OPP stands on the shoulders of those who have gone before them. That was the case for me and it will be the case for my successors," said Fantino.

The first leader of the OPP in 1909 was Superintendent Joseph E. Rogers. The rank of Commissioner was created in 1921 for his successor Harry M. Cawthra-Elliot. Hence, Deputy Lewis will be the OPP's 14th leader and the 13th Commissioner.

    
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For further information: Inspector Dave Ross, Phone: [phone]