Twenty-eight new sheriffs will begin their careers keeping people safe at courthouses throughout B.C., following their graduation from the Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC) on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025.

The graduates will be assigned to work in provincial courthouses in the province, including Prince George, Nanaimo and the Lower Mainland.

“Sheriffs play a crucial role in our justice system, ensuring our courthouses are safe and secure so that people can focus on their cases without worrying about their safety,” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General. “We are proud to welcome this new class of sheriffs who have completed a rigorous training program, and we thank them for their commitment to public service.”

Sheriffs are highly trained peace officers who protect court users, transport accused and convicted people, provide security for the judiciary, Crown, defence and staff, and perform other enforcement duties. Their presence helps ensure B.C.’s justice system runs safely and smoothly.

The graduates completed intensive academic, physical and practical training at JIBC, and will undergo field training with experienced sheriffs. They will be ready for deployment beginning on Nov. 10, 2025. The next class of sheriff recruits will start training on Nov. 3, 2025.

“We are pleased to welcome 28 new deputy sheriffs to the BC Sheriff Service,” said Roger Phillips, chief sheriff and executive director, BC Sheriff Service. “This group has worked hard to meet the demands of a challenging program, and I know they will serve B.C.’s justice system with professionalism and dedication.”

The Province continues to strengthen the court system through investments in recruitment, retention and training for sheriffs, ensuring B.C.’s courts are safer, more efficient and better equipped to serve people throughout the province.

Learn More:

To watch a video about working as a B.C. sheriff, visit: https://youtu.be/rdhf8trOoSM

To explore career opportunities with the B.C. Sheriff Service, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/careers-myhr/job-seekers/featured-careers/deputy-sheriff