Les Sylven has been named the new police chief of Central Saanich, replacing long-time chief Paul Hames.
Sylven has been deputy chief since 2011.
The department’s police board made the decision at its meeting last night.
“When it comes to experience, education and overall approach to policing for our community, we all agree that Les has what we are looking for in a new Chief Constable,” mayor Ryan Windsor said.
Sylven began his career with the RCMP in 1988, stationed in Squamish and the Lower Mainland. In 1996, he joined the Victoria police where he served as officer in charge of the West division and rose in the ranks to become inspector, heading the human resources department.
Sylven left Victoria police in 2011 to join Central Saanich police as deputy chief.
Hames will leave the department Sept. 3, after 16 years in the top spot.
