The Kelowna RCMP’s Community Safety Unit, which has been responsible for addressing complex issues and social disorder almost exclusively in the city’s downtown and Rutland uptown areas, is expanding their team to include a full-time supervisor working directly in the Rutland community.
Cpl. Michael Gauthier, currently the NCO i/c of the Media Relations Unit, was the selected candidate for this new role and will be taking his new post starting the week of May 5, 2025, working daily out of the Rutland Community Policing Office. His duties will include increasing visibility, community engagement, the implementation of crime prevention strategies and close workings with the City of Kelowna’s Community Safety Services Branch and Uptown Rutland Business Association.
Cpl. Gauthier is a 16-year-veteran who promoted from the Community Safety Unit to the Media Relations Unit in 2023, after having spent nearly 4 years with the team acting in several capacities, including road supervisor, RCMP liaison for Kelowna’s Integrated Court, bait bike coordinator, and team lead on several crime reduction initiatives.
“It was important that we select someone who is not only familiar with the expectations and day-to-day operations of the Community Safety Unit, but also someone who is already trusted and well known among our partnering agencies, and who can work collaboratively to address sensitive and complex community issues,” says Inspector Chris Goebel, Acting Officer in Charge of the Kelowna RCMP Detachment. “Mike will be a valuable resource for this unit and new initiative, and we are looking forward to the positive impact and valued contributions he will make in the community.”
“Community safety is council’s top priority, and we are pleased by the RCMP’s continued investment into the community, which builds on the resources we’ve invested in Rutland, including the URBA on-call team, to help ensure our city is safe and feels safe for residents, business owners, and visitors,” said Mayor Tom Dyas. “I’m pleased to welcome Cpl. Gauthier to this new leadership role—his experience and strong connection to Kelowna will be a valuable addition to our proactive efforts to reduce crime in the community.”
