Lake Country has officially welcomed its first RCMP commander, Staff Sergeant Jon Collins. His appointment was announced on August 21, marking an important milestone for the community after becoming a standalone detachment.
Collins brings with him more than two decades of operational and leadership experience within the RCMP. His career has spanned several key postings across British Columbia, where he built a strong reputation for investigative work and community engagement. He began his career in Williams Lake before moving to Kelowna, where he served in the Southeast District as part of the general investigation team. He later joined the major crime unit, handling some of the region’s most serious cases. His career also took him to Prince George, where he worked at the North District Major Crime Unit office.
Over the years, Collins has gained experience in a wide range of areas, from frontline operations to administrative oversight. In Lake Country, he previously served as the non-commissioned officer in charge between 2020 and 2024. After that, he was promoted to Staff Sergeant and became a watch commander at the Kelowna detachment. He also worked for almost three years in the Professional Responsibility Unit at the Kelowna Regional Detachment. His service includes a two-year posting in Alexis Creek, where he worked with four First Nations communities near Williams Lake.
Speaking about his new role, Collins expressed pride and commitment to Lake Country’s future. He noted that the community is growing and said he is ready to lead with modern policing approaches and stronger connections with residents. “I am honored to take on this leadership role,” Collins said. “Over the years I have built close relationships with the community. As Lake Country expands, we will meet rising demands with effective leadership, proactive initiatives, and meaningful engagement with our partners and residents.”
This leadership approach reflects a shift in how RCMP services are delivered in the Central Okanagan. Until recently, Lake Country policing was managed under a centralized model led by the Kelowna RCMP. The new structure now gives Lake Country its own dedicated commander, offering more direct oversight and accountability.
Local leaders see the appointment as a major step forward. Mayor Blair Ireland said Collins’ arrival signals a stronger focus on local priorities and safety. “This is a significant step for Lake Country,” Ireland said. “Having our own commander allows us to bring greater accountability and attention to the issues that matter most to our residents.”
With Collins now in charge, Lake Country residents can expect closer ties between law enforcement and the community. His track record of service, leadership, and engagement positions him as a strong fit for the role. The creation of a standalone detachment is seen as an important milestone for the region. It reflects the community’s growth and the increasing demand for dedicated policing resources. Collins’ leadership is expected to shape the way policing evolves in Lake Country in the years ahead.
