ACTIVE SHOOTER / ACTIVE THREAT

During his long and distinguished career as a law enforcement officer, Vernon White held positions with a number of services across Canada. After serving in the ranks of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for 24 years.

White was named Chief of the Durham Regional Police Service in 2005. In 2007 he became Chief of the Ottawa Police Service. Throughout his career, he made numerous important contributions to modernizing and enhancing policing operations nationally and internationally.

In 2012, White was appointed to the Senate by Prime Minister Stephen Harper, where he made a number of significant contributions in evolving the paradigms around policing and public safety in Senate debates. He supported multiple legislations aimed at improving oversight and accountability in law enforcement. He is a frequent contributor and speaker to issues involving organized crime, cybercrime, and drug policy. Dr White is a vocal advocate for mental health support, especially in policing and in our veteran communities. 

While not an Indigenous Senator himself, Dr. White supported improved relations between police services and Indigenous communities, including greater cultural training and community-based policing models.