Meet the Surrey RCMP's new top cop

Chief Supt. Dwayne McDonald, who has spent more than 20 years with the RCMP, is Surrey's new top cop.

McDonald worked his way up the ranks through the Burnaby RCMP, Integrated Homicide Investigation Team and the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit.

He is currently the officer in charge of IHIT.

"His style is to lead from the front, not watch from the sidelines, and if work needs to be done, he'll do it," said Surrey Mayor Linda Hepner.

"Equally important is the progressive and community-first thinking that have been priorities for the Surrey RCMP and that Chief Supt. Dwayne McDonald will bring with him."

Gun violence

McDonald takes over a police force that has been dealing with a bloody drug turf war that has led to dozens of shootings this year.

The feud appears to have calmed down in recent months, but McDonald says it's still a concern.

"I don't think you can ever rest on the laurels of our success and say that we have wiped that problem out," he said.

"We need to remain on top of, not just enforcement actions, but more importantly, engaging our youth early. Statistically, I think most of the individuals involved in this drug war or turf war are young people."

Surrey roots

Hepner says she is delighted Surrey's new OIC has a connection to the city.

"In his youth he lived in Guildford, later in Whalley and in Fraser Heights as an adult," Hepner said.

"His family ties are still here as his father is active a pastor in Surrey to this day."

McDonald takes over from Assistant Commissioner Bill Fordy.

Fordy was recently promoted to district commander for the Lower Mainland.