DPD History
Established in 1888, the Delta Police Department (DPD) holds a distinguished position as one of the earliest Municipal Police Departments in British Columbia. Joseph Jordan assumed the role of Delta's Chief Constable on July 7, 1888, earning a monthly salary of $75. A year prior, in 1887, William McKee, the municipal clerk, also took on the responsibilities of a constable alongside his duties as a clerk.
In the ensuing years, the Delta Police Department faced evolving challenges, transitioning to a full-time operation in the 1950s when lumber theft ceased to be the primary concern. As the municipality of Delta expanded and transformed, so did its police service. Presently, a dedicated team of over 200 officers serves the community of Delta, which boasts a population exceeding 110,000.
Despite the growth in both population and the police force, Delta maintains a strong connection to its community. The Delta Police take pride in offering over 130 years of policing services to a community undergoing dynamic changes while upholding the enduring philosophy of "No Call too Small," resonating consistently throughout our history.
Over the years, the landscape of crime and criminal activity in Delta has undergone significant transformations. The Delta Police remains committed to staying attuned to evolving crime trends and patterns, strategically deploying resources to address emerging issues as communities evolve and technology and social challenges shape the nature of crime.
In 2013, the DPD published "Building on the Past, Focused on the Future" to commemorate its 125th anniversary, offering a comprehensive exploration of the department's growth and changes over the last century. This historical account is available for purchase at $20. To order a copy, please email [email protected].
