Changes are coming to the operation of Tyendinaga Police Service (TPS).
In a statement on social media, the Tyendinaga Police Service Board reports that it is making significant strides towards transitioning its policing model from the Ontario First Nations Policing Agreement, currently administered by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), to its own self-administered police service.
It would make Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory the first community to undertake such a change in over 25 years.
The board will oversee policing governance as an independent agency appointed by the Tyendinaga Mohawk Council.
To facilitate the transition, an OPP staff sergeant has joined TPS to offer operational support and administrative oversight throughout the transition process.
Their primary focus will be on developing structure, policies, and procedures while providing leadership support.
During the process, the board will be reaching out to the community for feedback and input on their strategic direction.
Read the full statement from the TPS Board below:
The Tyendinaga Police Service Board is pleased to share that we are making significant strides towards transitioning our policing model from the Ontario First Nations Policing Agreement, currently administered by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), to our own self-administered police service. We are proud to be the first community to undertake this change in over 25 years.
While the background process has been extensive, we are now moving into the critical ‘transition’ phase. This stage will necessitate careful planning, collaborative partnerships, and a comprehensive roadmap to ensure the establishment of a police service that enhances public safety, elevates accountability, and addresses the specific needs of our community. We recognize the importance of having adequate dedicated resources to achieve this success. The Board will oversee policing governance as an independent agency appointed by the Tyendinaga Mohawk Council. Soon, we will be reaching out to the community for your feedback and input on our strategic direction.
For community members interested in pursuing a career in policing and serving our community, as officers and civilian staff, we encourage you to prepare for forthcoming employment opportunities.
To facilitate this transition, the Tyendinaga Police Services Board has requested that the OPP provide operational resources and guidance during this phase. This collaboration aims to support our transition while maintaining a steadfast commitment to serving our community.
**Key Developments:**
– Effective November 10, 2025, an OPP Staff Sergeant will be joining the Tyendinaga Police Service (TPS) to offer operational support and administrative oversight throughout the transition process. Their primary focus will be on developing our structure, policies, and procedures while providing vital leadership support.
– OPP Superintendent Gary Maracle, a respected member of our community, will serve as the OPP lead during this transition. His involvement ensures that our community’s voice is prioritized and that our goals and values are upheld.
– TPS will maintain its commitment to operating as a community-led police service.
We would like to take this opportunity to commend A/Sgt. Chris Brinklow and all TPS officers for their exceptional leadership and dedication over the past months. Their efforts have illuminated the pressing challenges posed by criminal activity and organized crime within our community, reinforcing the importance of our policing transition.
Together, we are laying the groundwork for a robust, independent police service that truly reflects the needs, values, and principles of our community. We thank you for your ongoing support as we embark on this historic journey. Further information will be provided as we progress, and until otherwise notified, A/Sgt. Chris Brinklow will remain the primary contact for the community.
Sincerely,
Tyendinaga Police Services Board
