Durham Regional Police Service Board Announces the Selection of two Deputy Chiefs of Police

- Jun 17, 2026

Media Releases

The Durham Regional Police Service Board is pleased to announce that Acting Deputy Chief Ryan Connolly from the Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) and Superintendent Chirag Bhatt from the York Regional Police have been chosen as Deputy Chiefs of Police following a comprehensive search and evaluation process. The appointments take effect on July 1, 2026.

“Deputy Chief Designates Bhatt and Connolly have demonstrated exceptional police leadership qualities throughout their careers that earned them the trust and respect of their colleagues and their communities,” said Board Chair, Shaun Collier. “Their competence and character have now earned them the trust and support of the Police Service Board, and we are delighted to welcome them to their Command roles in supporting the continued delivery of excellent police services across Durham Region.”

The selection process, which was supported by Boyden Canada, aimed to attract professional and accomplished leaders to advance the continued building of a modern Police Service that works in partnership with the community and builds internal and external trust. The recruitment process was international in scope, and assessed police leaders in critical areas such as community engagement, cultural transformation, and equity, diversity and inclusion.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute my knowledge and skills as Deputy Chief of Police, and I will continue to be motivated to support our members and strengthen the community’s trust,” said Deputy Chief Designate Ryan Connolly. “Our Region and our profession are evolving, and, with my Command colleagues, I am committed to develop and implement policing strategies to ensure that the DRPS achieves its community safety goals today, and in the years ahead.”

“I welcome this next step in my policing career and the opportunity to work alongside the outstanding professionals at the DRPS and all community partners and citizens,” said Deputy Chief Designate, Chirag Bhatt. “I will embrace this new role with pride, humility and enthusiasm, and a firm resolve to support Chief Moreira and DRPS members in continuing to build a modern, accountable, community-centred Police Service that is a model across Ontario and Canada.”

“I offer my congratulations and a sincere welcome to our new Command members,” added Chief Moreira. “Deputy Chief Designates Bhatt and Connolly will add significant strength and depth to our leadership team and help shape and execute our plans for providing the community with the high-quality police services that they expect and deserve.”

The timing of a swearing-in ceremony to formally appoint the new Deputy Chiefs of Police will be announced in the near future.