Superintendent Andrew Burton announced his retirement on Thursday as the Officer in Charge of the Nanaimo RCMP detachment, ending a career that lasted 32 years.
His career with the RCMP saw early postings in Smithers, Bella Coola, Kamloops, Merritt, Port Alberni, Quesnel, and Regina.
Along with being part of Indigenous Policing, he also was part of Serious Crime and Drug Enforcement units, served 12 years as an Emergency Response team member, focused on having Nanaimo officers be physically and mentally healthy, was Officer in Charge of Operations Support from 2022 to 2023, and eventually Superintendent.
Burton says it’s been an honour and privilege to serve with RCMP across the country.
“I am very proud of the work of members and staff at the Nanaimo detachment,” said Burton.
“Time and time again, they are asked to do challenging work in often very trying circumstances. I am looking forward to the next chapter in my career with B.C Corrections, as the new Warden at the Nanaimo Correctional Centre and the challenges that lay ahead.”
Burton’s retirement has led to some people giving their thanks for Burton’s work, including District Commander for the Island District RCMP Bruce Singer and Nanaimo Mayor Leonard Krog.
Superintendent Eric Rochette will take over as the new officer in command at the Nanaimo detachment, having worked in several detachments in BC, Manitoba, and Quebec, and has plenty of experience serving in front-line policing.
Rochette says he is honoured to be selected for this role and will work closely with the RCMP’s partners to maintain a high standard of service.
