HRM appoints Don MacLean as new Halifax Regional Police chief

The city has appointed the new chief of Halifax Regional Police (HRP).

On Tuesday, regional council approved the recommendation by the Board of Police Commissioners to appoint Don MacLean as the next Halifax Regional Police Chief after a nation-wide search.

MacLean took over as acting chief after Dan Kinsella stepped down in September 2023.

“The relationship that Halifax Regional Police has with the Halifax region and its vibrant and growing communities is very important to me. It was with great pride that assumed the role of Acting Chief last year, allowing me to further build and strengthen those relationships,” said Chief MacLean.

“I thank Halifax Regional Council and the Board of Police Commissioners for the confidence they have placed in me. I am both honoured and humbled to continue to represent the hardworking members and staff of the Halifax Regional Police.”

According to HRM, MacLean has more than 31 years of experience with HRP.

More recently, he has held the position of deputy chief of operations, overseeing both the patrol and criminal investigation divisions since 2020.