Devin Laforce
Police Officer
Edmonton,AB
Summary
Strategic and operational police executive with over 26 years of progressive leadership. Currently serving as Interim Chief of Police and Deputy Chief Community Policing Bureau for the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) —an organization of more than 3,000 members and a $550M budget. As Interim Chief I command and am responsible for all operations of the EPS. This position is instrumental in not just what is done, but how and why things are done. Ultimately accountable for the credibility and reputation of the EPS as well as the legitimacy of policing with the community.
As Deputy Chief of CPB, I am responsible for the Bureau, comprising one third of EPS personnel, overseeing all patrol and frontline response, the most visible, demanding, and community-defining work in policing. As former Deputy Chief of ISSB, I commanded EPS’s most complex and highest-risk operational areas, including major crimes, organized crime, cybercrime, forensics, covert operations, K9, tactical, and flight operations. My leadership is defined by clarity, consequence, and commitment to public trust, grounded in lived command experience—not aspiration.
I bring a rare combination of strategic vision, cross-jurisdictional leadership, and proven results in complex policing environments. I am committed to delivering safe communities, restoring trust in public policing, and building internal cultures where excellence and integrity are expected—not assumed.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Chief of Police (Interim)
Edmonton Police Service
02.2025 - Current
Oversaw a $550 million operating budget and managed 3,000 personnel across various departments including patrol, investigations, community safety and well-being, and corporate support. Directed the EPS through delicate public events, strategic transformations, and crucial governance relationships, ensuring uninterrupted service delivery and maintaining internal cohesion during leadership changes.
- Achieved a 5% service-wide budget efficiency, offsetting a projected $4.3M overspend through disciplined prioritization and control.
- Advocated for traffic safety reform by engaging EPS membership, government stakeholders, and the public, championing traffic safety as a priority to municipal and provincial government.
- Delivered the 2024 Annual Policing Report to the Mayor and Council alongside the Edmonton Police Commission (EPC) and managed media and council inquiries.
- Coordinated Stanley Cup playoff operations, balancing public safety, resources, and visibility while supporting national deployments to the G7 Summit. Ensured operational capacity and managed costs of regular policing functions despite the pressures of the playoffs and G7.
- Co-led executive and mid-management strategic offsites to align culture, performance expectations, and EPS's forward vision.
- Set the tone for inclusive leadership by actively engaging in key public events like the Chief’s Iftar, Pride breakfast, the Chief’s Community Council, Foundation community events, and citywide town halls.
- Rebuilt trust with the mayor, council, and the Edmonton Police Association (EPA) through consistent, transparent, and collaborative leadership. Our joint efforts aimed to enhance community relations and ensure effective governance.
- Managed significant promotions and leadership realignments, including the appointment of a Deputy Chief and Superintendent, to ensure organizational stability during the transitional period of the Chief.
- Negotiated a historic collective agreement with the EPA—the first in 25 years to be completed without mediation or arbitration.
Deputy Chief (Community Policing)
Edmonton Police
03.2025 - Current
Lead EPS’s largest and most public-facing bureau, representing one-third of personnel across all patrol divisions and uniformed line response. CPB forms the foundation of community trust, police legitimacy, and officer presence across Edmonton.
- Refocused the CPB on accountability, responsibility, and community legitimacy by resetting standards for professionalism, prompt response, and neighbourhood ownership.
- Stabilized command across all patrol branches during periods of organizational transition. Strengthened organizational culture and frontline alignment through participation in 32 frontline parades, enhancing buy-in for traffic safety enforcement, geographic deployment, and community-led treatment plans.
- Accelerated the launch of the EPS Virtual Investigations initiative, enhancing digital reporting and redistributing workload.
- Managing a $140M annual operating budget; implemented vacancy management and process reviews to reduce overtime while maintaining innovation and frontline service delivery. Year-to-date reduction of $650K in overtime expenditures from 2024.
Deputy Chief (Investigations & Support Services)
Edmonton Police
05.2022 - 02.2025
Led EPS's most complex bureaus, including major crimes, organized crimes, cybercrimes, forensics, covert operations, tactical, canine, and flight operations. Provided strategic oversight of serious investigations, enhancing EPS's national leadership in investigative science, technological innovation, and public safety modernization.
- Scaled advanced investigative technology reality implementing and expanding the use of Rapid DNA, reformed firearms examination workflows, enhanced facial recognition capabilities and tech crime analysis.
- Achieved 47% reduction in shootings through multi-bureau coordination and implementing the EPS Guns and Gangs Strategy.
- Oversaw Project Gaslight, a national extortion and violent crime initiative, with EPS driving Canada’s most successful investigations into transnational organized crime and achieving unmatched results and public safety outcomes nationwide.
- Established Canada’s first Investigative Peace Officer program, creating a new classification of civilian investigative staff to support casework, extend service delivery, and preserve sworn capacity.
- Strengthened EPS’s independent sexual assault case review partnership with the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton, overseeing external reviews of more than 250 investigations to reinforce public accountability, build survivor trust, and uphold transparent investigative standards.
- Chaired the Respectful Workplace Committee and oversaw the EPS Whistleblower Program.
- Managed a $107M+ ISSB annual budget while leading high-impact initiatives such as the Guns and Gangs strategy and investigative modernization, maintaining a budget variance of just 0.6% despite unplanned demands including NHL playoffs and large-scale protests.
Superintendent (Research & Development)
Edmonton Police
10.2021 - 05.2022
Established and led EPS’s first-ever Research and Development Division, integrating innovation, research and data science with operational policing. Positioned the Division as an internal think tank and external partnership hub, reinforcing EPS’s reputation as a national leader in evidence-based and forward-looking public safety.
- Founded and operationalized the Research and Development Division.
- Developed the Community Solutions Accelerator (CSA) in partnership with AlchemistX, establishing a collaborative platform uniting law enforcement, startups, and technology leaders to co-design scalable public safety solutions alongside non-profits, social service agencies, academic institutions, and government partners.
- Established EPS as first Canadian police service to leverage MITACS-funded graduate researchers.
- Directed AI/ML applications to analyze unstructured financial crime data and ultimately go after profiteering related to organized crime.
Superintendent (Investigative Support)
Edmonton Police
01.2020 - 10.2021
Led one of EPS’s most dynamic and complex operational divisions, overseeing major functions including forensics, covert operations, cybercrime, and detainee care. Positioned EPS as a progressive policing agency through innovative deployment models, integrated medical detention solutions, and optimized investigative staffing.
- Modernized and advanced the Investigative Management and Care (IMAC) model, embedding wellness and operational efficiency as core pillars of detainee management and investigative reform.
- Implemented the direct lodge arrest system, reducing report writing time by 22% and total report cycle time by 30%, while eliminating shift change surges and increasing frontline availability.
- Initiated the Integrated Care Centre, combining police and paramedic support to safely manage detainees in crisis from intoxication or acute mental health conditions, reducing unnecessary hospital admissions and improving care pathways.
- Introduced and implemented cutting-edge technologies, including Canada’s first deployment of Rapid DNA and inter-agency facial recognition integration with the Calgary Police Service, advancing investigative excellence and positioning EPS at the forefront of modern policing.
Additional Roles
Edmonton Police
03.1999 - 01.2020
- Inspector, Vision 2020 Project (2019): Co-chaired a service-wide organizational review to modernize EPS’s structure and align it with future-focused policing. Led gap analysis and process mapping that informed the creation of the Community Safety and Well-Being Bureau. Developed and presented 50 strategic recommendations to the Chiefs Committee—all approved and implemented—resulting in a transformative realignment that consolidated investigative services, streamlined command structures, and delivered modernization without increasing the overall budget.
- Inspector, Traffic & Forensic Services Branch (2019–2020): Oversaw Major Collision, Specialized Traffic Operations, and Forensic Services, driving advancements in investigative capacity by establishing EPS’s firearms examination capabilities and modernizing forensic workflows.
- Inspector, Professional Development Branch (2016–2019): Led the integration of GBA+ across leadership development and training, restructured EPS’s recruit training program, and designed a modern, competency-based Inspector promotion process. Developed a dedicated driver training unit and led a multi-agency business case for a centralized, purpose-built training facility to enhance cross-jurisdictional collaboration and long-term organizational capacity.
- Staff Sergeant, Sexual Assault Sections (2015–2016):Developed a historic sexual assault function that integrated victim services, established a dedicated detective role, and created modern investigative workflows. Introduced a trauma-informed approach and implemented case file reviews with the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton, while managing high-profile, sensitive investigations.
- Staff Sergeant, Strategic Business Planning Section (2013–2015): Led major organizational projects, including the full modernization of EPS policy, development of Alberta’s provincial counter-terrorism strategy, and creation of the first EPS–Transit Police partnership. Oversaw structural planning for downtown redevelopment, the arena district, and the operational model for Edmonton International Airport. Guided early policy responses to cannabis legalization. Accountable for key strategic deliverables such as the Annual Policing Report, Citizen Satisfaction Survey, Environmental Scan, and internal research protocols.
- Sergeant & Detective (2010–2013): Served as Sergeant in the Crime Scenes Investigation Unit and as Detective in both General Duty and Sexual Assault Sections.
- Constable (1999–2010): Progressed through W Division, Communications, and CSI Unit; developed foundational expertise in frontline policing and crime scene investigation.
Timeline
Deputy Chief (Community Policing)
Edmonton Police
03.2025 - Current
Chief of Police (Interim)
Edmonton Police Service
02.2025 - Current
Deputy Chief (Investigations & Support Services)
Edmonton Police
05.2022 - 02.2025
Superintendent (Research & Development)
Edmonton Police
10.2021 - 05.2022
Superintendent (Investigative Support)
Edmonton Police
01.2020 - 10.2021
Graduate Certificate - Criminal Justice
University of Virginia
05.2001 -
Executive Masters - International Police Leadership
Charles Sturt University
05.2001 -
Master of Science - Forensic Science
Oklahoma State University
05.2001 -
Post-Degree Certificate - Management Development For Police Services
University of Alberta
05.2001 -
Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences / Molecular Genetics
University of Alberta
05.2001 -
Additional Roles
Edmonton Police
03.1999 - 01.2020
Work Committees
- CACP - Research Advisory Committee - 2021 - present. Chair since 2023.
- CACP - Counter Terrorism and National Security (CTNS)
- CACP - Organized Crime Committee and Canadian Integrated Response to Organized Crime (CIROC)
- Prairie Region Tier I representative (Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs)
- MCCA-IC - Major City Chiefs Association Intelligence Commander
- JMT - ALERT. JMT - INSET - Joint Management Teams for ALERT (Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team) and INSET (Integrated National Security Enforcement Team)
- AACP - Forensic Biology - 2024 - present. Chair.
- Member of AACP, CACP, and IACP.
Volunteer Committees
- 2022 - present Edmonton Police Foundation board member / secretary
- 2015 - present Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton (board chair 2019-2022)
- 2002 - present Law Enforcement Torch Run (EPS director / Provincial director / presently Executive Sponsor for EPS)
- 2011 - 2024 Scouts Canada (116 Lynnwood) (Group Commissioner 2017-2022)
Other Work Experience
- 2015 - 2016 Staff Sergeant Sexual Assault Section
- 2013 - 2015 Staff Sergeant Strategic Business Planning Section
- 2012 - 2013 Detective Sexual Assault Section
- 2012 - 2012 Detective Patrol Support Team
- 2010 - 2012 Sergeant Crime Scenes Investigation Unit
- 1999 - 2010 Constable W Division, Communications, CSIU
Other Education & Instruction
Professional Development
- FBI National Academy - session 287 - 2023 (10 weeks)
- Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police - Executive Mentorship Program - 2021
- Canadian Police College / Hong Kong Police College - International Executive Police Development Program - 2019
- Variety of strategic thinking and leadership courses: PERF ICAT, Commissioned Officer Education Program, IACP - Leadership in Police Organizations, Evidence Based Policy Making, etc.
- Investigative training that includes: Designated as a Senior Official, CPC - MCM-Team Commander, CPC - Advanced Forensic Identification, ISEP courses, and multiple other advanced courses.
- Expertise as a Bloodstain Pattern Analyst and Latent Print Examiner.
Instruction
- 2023 - 2024 Canadian Police College - Executive Police Development - Fellow
- 2011 - 2021 MacEwan University criminal investigations and forensic science courses
Work Committees
- CACP - Research Advisory Committee - 2021 to present. Chair since 2023.
- CACP - Counter Terrorism and National Security (CTNS) - 2022 to present.
- CACP - Organized Crime Committee and Canadian Integrated Response to Organized Crime (CIROC) - 2022 to present.
- Prairie Region Tier I representative (Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs) - 2022 to present.
- MCCA-IC - Major City Chiefs Association Intelligence Commander - 2020 to present.
- JMT - ALERT. JMT - INSET - Joint Management Teams for ALERT (Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team) and INSET (Integrated National Security Enforcement Team).
- AACP - Forensic Biology - 2024 to present. Chair.
- Member of AACP, CACP, IACP, PERF, and FBINAA.
Volunteer Committees
- 2022 - present Edmonton Police Foundation board member / secretary.
- 2015 - present Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton (board chair 2019-2022).
- 2002 - present Law Enforcement Torch Run (EPS director / Provincial director / presently Executive Sponsor for EPS).
- 2011 - 2024 Scouts Canada (116 Lynnwood) (Group Commissioner 2017-2022).
Strategic Command Achievements
1. Organizational Restructuring & Alignment
- Authored and implemented Vision 2020, redefining EPS’s organizational structure to align bureau mandates with modern policing needs, talent development, and performance clarity.
- Established the Research and Development Division, integrating innovation into EPS’s core structure and positioning the organization as a national participant in evidence-based policing.
- The investigative and patrol divisions were realigned to support violent crime suppression, enhance accountability, and improve operational clarity. Additionally, over 60 detectives were reassigned to optimize outcomes.
- Stabilized executive levels by promoting a temporary Deputy Chief, temporary Chief Administration Officer, and Superintendent.
2. Investigative Excellence & Innovation
- Pioneered Canada’s first Rapid DNA deployment; modernized EPS’s capabilities in forensics, cybercrime, and organized crime investigations.
- Oversaw Project Gaslight, a nationally coordinated investigation into transnational extortion and violence, with EPS as the lead agency.
- Established the Community Solutions Accelerator in partnership with Alchemist X, integrating policing with venture tech to co-develop tools for real-world community safety problems.
- The Data Science team is developing advanced AI/ML to address unstructured data in financial crime. We have secured funding from Defence Research and Development Canada for this project. I advanced this initiative and served as the project sponsor.
- Forensic processes were modernized through civilianization, the Investigative Peace Officer role was introduced, and investigative quality was ensured via IMAC.
3. Public Safety Outcomes & Operational Command
- Led EPS’s most effective violent crime suppression strategy, resulting in a 47% reduction in shootings (2024) through multi-bureau coordination.
- Oversaw 15% drop in gang violence (2023); over 1,000 crime guns seized between 2021–2024.
- Developed newly structured homicide teams to clear backlogs and build proactive investigative capacity.
- Strong visible leadership to improve traffic enforcement and integrate patrol resources with community safety teams.
4. Community Trust & Public Legitimacy
- Expanded national hate crimes reporting, enhanced online accessibility, and improved incident tracking.
- Enhanced survivor trust through SACE partnership, overseeing 250+ independent sexual assault case reviews as EPS representative and Board Chair.
- Reinforced public connection and visibility through patrol parade attendance, town halls, and active participation in diverse community events.
5. Internal Culture Reform & EDI Leadership
- Led impactful EDI initiatives included embedding GBA+ into leadership development, chairing the Respectful Workplace committee, launching an equity-integrated investigative model for hate crimes, and expanding access to sexual assault case reviews with independent oversight. Introduced Trauma led investigations into serious crimes.
- Several change management initiatives involved supervisors approving investigative reports, directly lodging arrests, and promoting a values-based, people-first culture.
- Unify executive and frontline culture by adopting the dark blue uniform shirt, which symbolizes a cohesive team and a unified standard.
6. Governance, Collaboration & Research Leadership
- Chair, CACP Research Advisory Committee; founding leader of EPS Research & Development Division. Elevated EPS’s voice nationally and internationally through the AACP, CACP, and MCCA.
- Developed the implementation plan for the Community Accelerator with Alchemist X; EPS was the first municipal agency to use MITACS-funded grad researchers.
- Established trust with the Mayor, Council, and the Edmonton Police Association through reliable, consistent, and transparent engagement.
Committees & Leadership
- Chair, CACP Research Advisory Committee (2023–Present)
- Tier I Commander, Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs – Western Canada (2022–Present)
- Member, Major Cities Chiefs Association (2025–Present; 2020–2025 as Intelligence Commander)
- Chair, AACP Forensic Biology Committee (2024–Present)
- Joint Management Team, ALERT and INSET (2020–2025)
- Former Member, CACP Counter Terrorism & National Security Committee (2022–2025)
- Member of AACP (Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police), CACP (Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police), MCCA (Major Cities Chiefs Association), PERF (Police Executive Research Forum), and FBINAA (Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy Associates).
- Former Member of , CACP Organized Crime Committee & CIROC (2022–2025); CACP CSWB Committee (2021-2023); CACP Traffic Safety Committee (2019-2021)
- Mentorship of EPS and police executives across the country through AACP, CACP, and Canadian Police College programs.
Volunteer Committees
- Edmonton Police Foundation board member / Secretary (2022-Present)
- Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton (2015-Present; board chair 2019-2022)
- Law Enforcement Torch Run Executive Sponsor (2002-Present, past EPS Director and Provincial Director)
- Former Scouts Canada 116 Lynnwood (2011-2024; group Commissioner 2017-2022)
Education Professional Development
Degrees & Certifications
- Graduate Certificate, Criminal Justice – University of Virginia (2023)
- Executive Master’s, International Police Leadership – Charles Sturt University (2021)
- Master of Science, Forensic Science (Biology) – Oklahoma State University (2014)
- Certificate, Police Management Development – University of Alberta (2006)
- Bachelor of Science, Molecular Genetics – University of Alberta (1998)
Executive Training / Specialized Training
- FBI National Academy (Session 287 – 10 weeks)
- CACP Executive Mentorship Program (Cohort 2)
- Gold Commander – Critical incident Command
- International Executive Police Development Program (CPC / Hong Kong Police)
- IACP Leadership in Police Organizations
- PERF ICAT, Evidence-Based Policy, Project Management
- CPC: Major Case Management, Forensics, Investigative Training
- Certified Bloodstain Pattern Analyst & Latent Print Examiner
Awards & Recognition
- Member, Order of Merit of the Police Forces (M.O.M.) (2025)
- King’s Coronation Medal (2025)
- Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal (Alberta) (2024)
- Police Exemplary Service Medal
- Alberta Police Officer Long Service Medal
- Alberta Emergency Services Medal
- LETR Leadership Recognition
- Multiple EPS commendations for operations, investigations, innovation and leadership
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