WPS Chief Daryl Longworth to Retire in October

Tuesday, 22 February 2022 at 12:59

Longworth gave his notice of retirement at the most recent WPS Board meeting on February 14th.

WOODSTOCK - Woodstock Police Chief Daryl Longworth has announced his intention to retire in October.

Longworth has enjoyed a 30 year career in policing, serving as the Woodstock Chief of Police for the past three years. He gave his retirement notice to the Woodstock Police Services Board at the February 14th board meeting.

Longworth's career includes a number of high profile homicide investigations, undercover drug investigations, tactical operations and investigations into Outlaw Motorcycle gangs. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto. Longworth was previously a deputy chief in Woodstock and London, before accepting the top job in Woodstock in 2019.

Longworth says he got to live out his dream over the past 30 years.

"Becoming a police officer was a dream come true and I am truly blessed to have been a member of such a noble profession. Although I have always tried to put family first, there have been many, many times during my career where the job has been all-consuming and has deprived my family of a father and husband. It’s now time for me to step away from policing and devote all of my time to my family and other interests. This career and the organizations I have served in have provided me with unimaginable opportunities and I would like to thank the communities and the members of the services I've been a part of for allowing me the opportunity to serve them in this way."

Woodstock Police Services Board Chair, Ken Whiteford, wanted to thank Chief Longworth on behalf of the entire Board.

"Chief Longworth has made an exceptional contribution to policing in Woodstock as he has achieved many significant accomplishments over the past three years which will have a lasting effect on the Service. The Board appreciates the Chief making his announcement well in advance of his retirement in order to provide the Board with sufficient time to find our next Chief."

Longworth will continue as the Chief for several months, officially retiring in October. The Woodstock Police Services Board will start the recruitment process for hiring his replacement.