Surrey police chief Norm Lipinski ousted after return from vacation
Former chief says dismissal was "not the way" he hoped to end 48-year policing career.
Norm Lipinski, ousted as chief of the Surrey Police Service on Monday, said in a farewell letter Wednesday that while the termination caught him off guard, he leaves with "immense pride" in what the force accomplished.
"On my first day back from vacation, I was called into a meeting with the police board and informed that my employment was being terminated without cause," Lipinski wrote in the letter, obtained by Postmedia. "While this is not the way I hoped my time with the Surrey Police Service would come to an end, I leave with immense pride in what we have accomplished together under extraordinarily challenging circumstances."
Lipinski, who spent 48 years in policing, highlighted the SPS's achievement of reaching "Police of Jurisdiction" status—a milestone he called the proudest of his career. He emphasized that success came through the dedication of every member of the organization.
The ouster has raised governance questions. Board chair Harley Chappell resigned, saying he was "blindsided" by the decision, suggesting the board did not act cohesively. A labour lawyer noted that if Lipinski pursues a termination rather than resignation, it could affect his severance—a significant financial decision given his $285,000 base salary and a contract renewed in October for another three years with a two-year extension option.
The sudden departure of a chief can disrupt an organization's strategic direction and culture. Members are already asking why it happened and whether it was fair—questions that will linger as the board works to install new leadership.