Penticton RCMP detachment Superintendent Ted De Jager is leaving his position with the city to take on new responsibilities at E Division headquarters this fall.

(STEVE ARSTAD / iNFOnews.ca)

PENTICTON - Penticton’s top cop is moving on.

Penticton RCMP Superintendent Ted De Jager announced today, July 24, he is transferring to E Division Headquarters in Surrey, taking on the role of Officer in charge of service delivery for the province.

De Jager takes on the new role in the fall, working in the Operations Strategy Branch.

He said in an email statement issued tonight, July 24, he will be preparing in the coming months for handover to his successor.

De Jager had this to say in departing from his position as superintendent of the Penticton RCMP detachment:

"I would like to take this opportunity to say good bye for now to the wonderful people of the South Okanagan. The past two and a half years have been an incredible experience and it was an honour to serve in such a key role in our communities. The members, employees and volunteers of this regional detachment have worked so hard in the past years to build public safety and will continue to go the distance for all of you.

Dionne and I  have been blessed to meet so many great and caring people in our time here and look forward to seeing them soon. Change is often a part of our journey in the Mounties and this new opportunity is one that allows me to serve an even broader portion of our society, while at the same time furthering my education during this new adventure. As many of you know, my father was a minister.  I think of him often and remember the wise counsel he gave before he went home.  One verse, from Corinthians has guided me through my many years in the army and policing:  'Be on your guard, stand firm in the faith, be courageous, be strong. Do everything in love.'

In other words, show no fear, stand true to your values, love your community, even those who don't agree with you. There's no better way to serve as a police officer.

See you soon."

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