Palmer said he is leaving the VPD in good shape for his successor. “You probably won’t see the last of me,” he said.
After nearly 40 years with the Vancouver Police Department (VPD), Chief Adam Palmer has announced his retirement, effective five months before his current contract ends. Palmer, the longest-serving chief in VPD history, said he is leaving the department in good shape for his successor. His announcement, made at a press conference with Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim and Police Board Chair Fred Chong, was described as "bittersweet" by Sim, who praised Palmer as a role model, mentor, and friend. Palmer's tenure included both achievements and controversies, including the 2015 killing of Myles Gray, which was declared a homicide by a coroner's inquest. He was respected for his ability to address social issues like mental illness and homelessness. A national search for his replacement is underway, with Deputy Chief Steve Rai likely to act as interim chief if needed. Palmer's legacy as a dedicated leader is expected to endure.
