Cornwall, ON – Cornwall Police Service Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Hugh Stevenson as the new Chief Designate until Chief Shawna Spowart’s official retirement at the end of 2026. Mr. Stevenson will then become the Chief of the Cornwall Police Service (CPS) as of January 1, 2027.

“We are quite excited that Mr. Stevenson will be joining our team. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. He is a transformational policing executive with 38 years of leadership across both municipal and provincial policing,” said Chair Brisson. “Most recently he has served as Chief of Police for the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service (2018–2025)—a municipal service comparable to the Cornwall Police Service in its resource constraints, staffing pressures, and border-related demands. He fully understands the importance of being present and engaged in the community and as such will be relocating to Cornwall or the surrounding area within the next few weeks. We look forward to our new partnership with Mr. Stevenson.” He will be officially sworn in at the June 25, 2026, CPS Board meeting.

Hugh Stevenson: “My experience, leadership, and proven results as a municipal Chief of Police and Senior OPP Executive align directly with Cornwall’s stated requirements. I bring a demonstrated record of building respectful, high-functioning partnerships with all stakeholders. I am prepared to lead the Cornwall Police Service in true partnership with the Board and all civilian and sworn members, fostering a culture of trust, accountability, and collaboration while advancing forward-thinking, evidence-based policing strategies. I am ready to deliver the leadership required to strengthen public confidence and ensure the continued safety, resilience, and long-term prosperity of Cornwall and its residents.”

His leadership is anchored in transparent communication, strong governance, and a collaborative partnership with the Police Service Board, ensuring alignment on strategic priorities, fiscal accountability, and organizational integrity. He brings expertise in governance, fiscal stewardship, research, and strategic planning, complemented by a sustained commitment to people development—mentoring, empowering, and preparing both sworn and civilian members to become the next generation of leaders.

His career reflects a sustained commitment to continuous professional development, both personally and in fostering a culture of learning among peers and subordinates. He holds advanced academic credentials, including a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology (Law and Psychology) from Carleton University, a master’s degree in criminology from the University of Toronto and a Doctorate in Education (Clinical Psychology and Teaching) from the University of Toronto. Most recently, he completed the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) course in Artificial Intelligence and Business Strategy further strengthening his capacity to lead in an increasingly technology-driven policing environment.

-30-

MEDIA CONTACT:
S/Cst. Georges Levere
Cornwall Police Service
levere.ge@cornwallpolice.com