York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween plans to retire on June 26 after 37 years in policing, including six years as chief. The York Regional Police Service Board confirmed the announcement in a recent news release.
Recent Major Investigation
The news follows the conclusion of Project South, a major probe into organized crime and corruption linked to Toronto Police Service members. On February 5, authorities arrested and charged seven active Toronto police officers, one retired officer, and 19 other suspects. Allegations include conspiracy to commit murder, shootings, extortion, robbery, and drug trafficking.
“We will not rest until we are sure corrupt, criminal actors and anyone abusing their power as a police officer is held accountable,” MacSween stated. “Corruption has no place in policing — it is never, and will never, be tolerated.”
Reflections on Leadership
In a post on X, MacSween described leading the service as the greatest honor of his career. “It has been the greatest honour of my career to lead the dedicated members of York Regional Police, who put the professionalism, compassion and commitment to public safety into action every day,” he wrote.
He expressed gratitude to the Police Service Board, members, partners, and communities for their trust over his tenure. “Being privileged to work alongside and lead thousands of exceptional people, I am retiring with immense gratitude and pride,” MacSween added.
Praise from Leadership and Association
Board Chair Steve Pellegrini commended MacSween’s service. “Chief MacSween has served our community with integrity, professionalism and a steadfast commitment to public safety,” Pellegrini said. “Under his leadership, our service has continued to evolve — strengthening community trust, improving support for our members, and modernizing how we respond to the changing needs of the people we serve.”
The York Regional Police Association, representing 2,700 uniformed and civilian members, also offered congratulations via X. “He led the service through evolving changes that required integrity, resilience and a genuine care for both members and the public. We are grateful for his leadership and wish him all the best in his retirement,” the association stated.
Career Highlights
MacSween assumed the role of chief on May 1, 2020, following positions in criminal investigations, community services, training, education, and the hold-up unit. During his tenure, he served as president of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police, chair of the Canadian Police Knowledge Network and St. John Ambulance Board of Directors, and a board member for Special Olympics Ontario.
MacSween pledged to ensure a smooth transition in the coming months, keeping the organization’s focus on building safer communities.
