Clarke officially sworn in as deputy chief of police, says goal is to build stronger service
CONNOR LUCZKA, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
As the Stratford Police Pipes and Drums band led a procession through the Army Navy & Air Force Veterans building on Sept. 2, numerous officials and dignitaries spoke about his dedication and leadership, and his family and friends filled out chairs in the hall, Stratford Police Service Deputy Chief Jason Clarke was thinking of one word.
“The word that comes to mind is gratitude,” Clarke said. “I'm grateful for this opportunity, for the trust that has been placed in me, and for the privilege of serving alongside so many outstanding people throughout my career.”
Clarke made those comments during his official swearing-in ceremony. He was named to the position this summer, following an internal selection process after former Deputy Chief Gerry Foster retired in 2025.
Clarke, who was an inspector with the service until recently, has been with the local police service for 22 straight years, having been born and raised in the Festival City. After graduating from the law and security program, as it was called then, he began his journey in policing. He got a job in corrections and was asked to interview for an officer position in Stratford shortly after, joining the service in 2004. Since then he has held numerous position, including in the drug enforcement unit.
Now he joins Chief Paul Landers in leading the organization.
Speaking at the ceremony, Clarke listed all the people who have supported him during his career: his colleagues, his friends, his family, and those that came before him.
“I'm very proud that we continue to attract exceptional people who wear our crest with pride,” Clarke told the crowd. “Having seen this organization from many perspectives over the years, one thing has never changed: the professionalism, dedication and commitment our members demonstrate every day. Both our sworn and civilian members perform critical work, often without recognition and under challenging circumstances. And I know firsthand, on the quality of the people we have that make up this service.
“As deputy chief, my responsibility is to ensure that our members have the leadership, support and resources they need to succeed. My leadership philosophy is simple: I want to be present, accessible and supportive. I want our members to know that they will be heard, valued and encouraged to contribute. Leadership is not about having all the answers; it's about listening, empowering people and making the decisions when they need to be made.
“… Policing asks a great deal of our members and their families. We face situations most people cannot fully understand, and over time, this profession can change us. My hope is that while policing may shape us, it never takes away the person we were before we wore the uniform. When we take care of our people, our people are better equipped to take care of our community. Ultimately, my goal is simple: to make tomorrow better than today, to continue modernizing, developing our future leaders from within and ensuring our members feel supported, valued and proud of the work they do. When my policing career eventually comes to an end, I hope we can look back and say we help build a stronger police service, a safer community and a healthier organization for those that will follow us.”
Comments