Thompson New South Bruce OPP Commander

There's a new detachment commander heading up South Bruce OPP for the next few months.

Acting Inspector Wayne Thompson took command earlier this week and will be filling in on an interim basis until February for Inspector Scott Smith, who has been assigned to a project within the OPP.

Thompson says it has been a steep learning curve, but the staff and officers have been helping him get accustomed to his new surroundings.

Thompson is a Wiarton native and has been detachment commander for Bruce Peninsula OPP for the past four years and says that understanding of Bruce County has helped simplify the transition to his new role.

As for priorities during his stay with South Bruce OPP, Thompson says it's all about making sure his officers are no strangers.

"I'm a big proponent of any work with the kids, the youth within the community, I'm a big supporter of R.I.D.E., and I'm also a big proponent of foot patrol, getting our officers involved within the community and being visible," says Thompson.