The first century of policing in Winnipeg reflects the city’s transition from a small settlement to a growing urban centre. During this period, the police service evolved in response to population growth, changing laws, and emerging public safety needs.
Individuals referenced in this document include; Chief Donald Macpherson, Chief John C. McRae, Chief Chris Newton, Chief George Smith, Chief Robert Taft, Chief Charles McIver, Chief George Blow, Chief Norm Stewart.
Before amalgamation, policing services were provided by multiple municipal and regional forces across the Winnipeg area. This period highlights the distinct approaches, challenges, and identities of the various police agencies prior to unification.
Amalgamation brought together several policing organizations under a single service, marking a significant shift in governance, operations, and service delivery. This period reflects the transition toward a unified police service for the City of Winnipeg.
Over time, the Winnipeg Police Service has developed specialized units to address specific public safety needs. These units reflect changes in policing practices, technology, and the evolving responsibilities of the service.
Behind the badge explores the people and roles that support policing beyond frontline duties. Highlighting the diverse contributions, careers, and responsibilities that have helped shape the Winnipeg Police Service over time.
Individuals & stories referenced in this document include; Franklin Harry McKay, John Kenneth Hansell, Charles Tully, Monica Chertok #1564, Martha Look, Lest We Forget, Sergeant James G Jewell, Constable W.L. McIntyre, Jack Templeman, Michael (Mike) Stephens, Badge #1683, Ron “Hopper” Bilton Takes On The World, Devon Clunis, Badge #1509, Joseph (Joe) Teres, Constable John William Clarkson, Roel Orteza, Barry Legge, James (Shau Vui) Fam, William (Bill) Carpenter, Victoria Hazell, Allen (Glen) Schapansky, Armin (Mr. Clean) Stojke, Robert (Bob) Flock, William Michie Stalker, John O’Donovan, 25th Anniversary Of Psb Gym Opening, Jeffrey James Quail, Edward Ogelski, Kevyn Bourgeois, John Conley (J.C.) McRae, Toronto Dominion Bank Robbery, January 22, 1971, Norman (Norm) Stewart, Robert Tremaine Taft, Henry Bernard Everett, James Toal, Thomas McD. Johnstone, Angus Hutchison McDonald, James Henry Blundell, Christian Einfeld, George William Maltby, David Morris, Jimmy Anis, Wai Hai Lee, Leonard (Len) Johnson, Andrew (Andy) Boehm, Helen Peters (Down), Robert Condie, Robert John Wright, Jon Jonasson (J.J.) Samson, Jean-Baptiste Joyal, Abraham (Adolph) Friedman, Giuseppe (Joseph) Barattieri, 32, Galician (Ukrainian) Officers, John S. Ingram, Gerry St. Germain, Murder At The Coloured Club, Joseph (Joe) Lucki, Harry Mead, Cushman Truckster, Ewatski Proud Part Of Cfl Official’s Legacy With Winnipeg Police Service, O’Donovan Draws Upon Experience As A Homicide Investigator For Novel Series, Whiskey & Orphanages, Remembering Those Who Died, 1914–1918, Charles Edward Driver, John Gray, Sidney Harold Lyon, Richard (Dick) Scott, Life After Hockey Leads Heskha To Serve And Protect, Commissioner Of Police 1915–1917, Allen T.J. Mayes, Badge #974, Constable Erling Walter Hansen, Mary Ellen Dunn
The Winnipeg Police Service honours members who lost their lives in the line of duty. This section reflects on their service and sacrifice, preserving their memory as an important part of the Service’s history.
Individuals referenced in this document include; The murder of Constable Charles Gillis, The murder of Sergeant John Verne, The murder of Constable Bernard Snowdon, The death of Constable John Beattie, The murder of Detective Ron Houston, The murder of Constable Leanard Shakespeare, The murder of Detective Sergeant James Sims, The murder of Constable John McDonald