Port Moody police chief to retire

There may be a new top cop in the City of the Arts next year.

After more than three decades wearing the uniform and nine years in Port Moody, Chief Const. David Fleugel will retire from the PMPD at the end of 2026, according to an announcement from the city’s police board.

Mayor Meghan Lahti praised Fleugel for his leadership and service.

“Since joining PMPD in 2017, he has demonstrated unwavering dedication to public safety and has guided the department with professionalism and integrity,” she stated.

The board is set to begin the search for the next chief constable, with Fleugel staying on to allow for a smooth transition.

“Timelines may be adjusted as needed to ensure continuity,” stated the release from the police board.

The board credited Fleugel for his focus on crime prevention and community-based policing, guiding the department through the pandemic as well as the: “evolving complexities of modern policing.”

Earlier this year, Fleugel discussed the plan to have frontline officers outfitted with body-worn cameras before the end of 2026.

“These cameras provide an impartial record of interactions, enhance transparency and accountability and help strengthen public trust,” he stated, calling the transition a “milestone.”

While Port Moody’s crime severity index ticked up in 2024, the City of the Arts has been among the safest municipalities in Metro Vancouver. In 2023, Port Moody was listed as the second safest city in the region, trailing only the District of North Vancouver.

In 2024, Fleugel sounded the alarm on the department’s difficulties retaining officers.

“Our vacancy rate . . . is as high as I’ve ever seen it, and it keeps me up at night,” he said at the time.