Media Release: Retirement of Police Chief Jodi Empey

Police Chief Jodi Empey has announced her retirement to the Smiths Falls Police Services Board, effective December 31, 2026, following an accomplished career spanning more than 32 years with the Smiths Falls Police Service.

Chief Empey began her policing career with the Smiths Falls Police Service in 1994 as a recruit and steadily advanced through the ranks over her distinguished career. In 2022, she was appointed Deputy Chief and later served as Acting Chief before officially being appointed Police Chief in July 2024, becoming the first female Police Chief in the history of the Service.

Throughout her career, Chief Empey has demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and a deep commitment to community policing. Her knowledge of the organization, strong relationships with community partners, and dedication to public safety have left a lasting impact on both the Service and the residents of Smiths Falls.

“Chief Empey’s leadership and unwavering commitment to the community have been invaluable to the Smiths Falls Police Service,” said Chris Saumure, Chairperson of the Smiths Falls Police Services Board. “Her decades of service, including breaking barriers as the first female Chief of Police in Smiths Falls, have helped shape the organization into what it is today. On behalf of the Board and the community, we thank Chief Empey for her years of dedication and wish her all the best in her well-earned retirement.”

“It has been an incredible honour to serve the Town of Smiths Falls for the past 32 years,” said Chief Empey. “I am extremely proud of the members of the Smiths Falls Police Service and grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated individuals throughout my career. Serving this community has been a privilege, and I will always cherish the relationships and experiences gained along the way.”

The Smiths Falls Police Services Board will begin the process of planning for leadership transition and recruitment in the coming months to ensure a seamless continuation of service for the community.

The Town of Smiths Falls and the Smiths Falls Police Services Board extend sincere appreciation to Chief Empey for her many years of service and wish her health, happiness, and success in retirement.

Included Image: Chief Jodi Empey

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Media Contact
Joanne Plontz
Communications and Marketing Coordinator
77 Beckwith Street N, Box 695
Smiths Falls, ON K7A 2B8
613-283-4124 ext. 1122
Communications@smithsfalls.ca