News release

Opening Ceremony for the new Prince Rupert RCMP Detachment

April 30, 2025 - Prince Rupert, British Columbia
From: Prince Rupert RCMP

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Prince Rupert RCMP has officially moved into their new detachment at a central location in the city’s downtown core on Market Place.

A grand opening ceremony was held on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, hosted by the local RCMP and the City of Prince Rupert. To kick off the monumental event, a traditional Flag Raising Ceremony was held to pay tribute to those who served the community in the past and present.

Led by piper, Inspector Terry Gillespie, officers in Red Serge marched towards the flagpole outside of the building, with the newest recruit at the detachment, Constable Alison Stewart, given the honour of raising the flag.

The new building replaces the old detachment that was built over 50 years ago. Similar to other, recently built RCMP detachments in BC, the facility in Prince Rupert incorporates state-of-the-art technology and equipment in security, prisoner monitoring, and features a Forensic Identification suite that includes an examination bay with modern DNA handling capabilities. Its efficient design with heating and cooling systems makes the space more effective and welcoming to the staff and community.

Inspector Gerald Walker, Detachment Commander of the Prince Rupert RCMP spoke at the event, emphasizing the significance of this move and the value of having a strong police presence in the community in a more modern home base. “This project has been many years in the making, long before my time as detachment commander,” said Insp. Walker. “This beautiful new building with its improved space and technology isn’t just about modernizing our operations – it’s about strengthening our ability to serve and connect with the community. It’s a place where our commitment to public safety can continue to thrive.”

“This building is the culmination of many years of work and collaboration between the RCMP and City,” said Mayor Herb Pond. “It will give local officers a facility that will enable them with the tools, technology and environment they need to protect public safety. It also provides the community assurance that our public safety infrastructure is keeping up with their needs.”

Superintendent Ken Floyd, now serving as the Acting North District Commander, was also in attendance at the event and holds a deep, personal connection to the community of Prince Rupert. “This town is where my journey in policing began 25 years ago, and is a place that shaped not just my career, but who I am today. The people here taught me what it truly means to serve with compassion, integrity and respect,” he said. “To return now, as the acting North District Commander, is beyond my imagination. It’s not just an honour, it’s a full-circle moment that means so much to me,” he continued.

“This new building for the Prince Rupert RCMP Detachment represents more than just bricks and mortar – it stands as a symbol of the vital role policing plays in the safety and well-being of our community as well as the officers and support staff who serve within it,” says BC RCMP Commanding Officer, Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald. “It is our profound honour to continue serving this community with dedication and pride.”

A cake cutting ceremony was held by Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, Commanding Officer of BC RCMP, along with Prince Rupert City Councillor Teri Forster, Mr. Murray Smith, house leader and elder from the Gitwilgyoots Tribe, and Detachment Commander Insp. Gerald Walker.

Released by:

BC RCMP Communication Services
778-290-2929