The duties of British Columbia’s sheriffs have come a long way since 1974 but a commitment to honour and integrity continues to be the hallmark of the men and women who serve with B.C. Sheriff Services (BCSS).

At a gala ceremony last night (Sept. 20) in Coquitlam, B.C.’s Lieutenant Governor Judith Guichon and Attorney General and Minister of Justice Suzanne Anton announced the winners of the BCSS annual awards.

The Chief Sheriff Commendation, which recognizes outstanding achievement and is the highest honour a sheriff can receive, was awarded to Inspector Kenneth Bodnar of Nanaimo.

Bodnar is being recognized for his extensive involvement and leadership role with the B.C. Sheriff Services’ Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team.

Also honoured on Saturday were 25 sheriffs who received the Peace Officer Exemplary Service Medal (POESM). This is a national award for long-serving officers who have demonstrated good conduct, hard work and efficiency.

Sheriff duties have evolved along with the laws of the land and today, about 500 sheriffs provide services in 44 courthouses and 45 circuit court locations throughout the province.

Sheriffs provide a vital service to British Columbia by ensuring the safety and security of all justice system participants, including the judiciary, legal counsel, accused and the public, while on court property or during transport.

Quotes:

Attorney General and Minister of Justice Suzanne Anton -

“The role of B.C. Sheriff Services has changed over time but dedication to their job and selfless commitment to the safety of British Columbians are still virtues demanded of the men and women in the service today. This is no better demonstrated than by the awards given to sheriffs for their outstanding service and dedication to their work with B.C. Sheriff Services.”

Chief Sheriff Paul Corrado -

“It’s important for us to honour our retirees for their dedicated years of service to the people of British Columbia, especially as the British Columbia Sheriff Services celebrates its 40th year. We also want to pay tribute to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional integrity to their job and have helped the sheriff service earn the sterling reputation that it has with the public and our colleagues in the justice system.”

Quick Facts:

• B.C. Sheriff Services traces its roots back to 1857, when Governor James Douglas appointed the first sheriff for the colony of Vancouver Island.
• The Sheriffs Act was created in 1860. Back then, the role of sheriff varied by location, and included duties such as managing the jail, collecting taxes and acting as government agent and gold commissioner.
• B.C. Sheriff Services was formed in 1974, when county sheriffs were consolidated and placed under the Ministry of Attorney General.
• Today, the primary role of the approximately 500 sheriffs in British Columbia is to ensure the safety and security of court users in 44 courthouses and 45 circuit court locations throughout the province. Duties also include escorting remanded individuals between correctional institutions and courthouses.

Learn More:

For more information on B.C. Sheriff Services: http://www.ag.gov.bc.ca/courts/sheriffs/index.htm

For more information on the Justice Institute of B.C.: http://www.jibc.ca/

Media Contacts:

Lauren Mulholland
Ministry of Justice
Government Communications and Public Engagement
250 889-3922