the Town of Truro

History

The Truro Police Service was established in 1875. It was located on Court Street, and the first Chief of Police was James MacKenzie. The majority of crimes dealt with then by police, were liquor related (i.e. intoxication or selling liquor).

In 1876 the Police Service consisted of two members, including the Chief of Police.

In 1912 the Police Service was moved to the Civic Building. Entrance to the office was from the Young Street side of the building. Lockup or holding cells were located in the basement.

In later years the department moved to a residential home on Young Street and then to 695 Prince Street. The 695 Prince Street building was constructed in 1884 and was originally the Federal Building. It was built to house the local Post Office. In 1968 the postal facilities were moved, and the Power Corporation took over the building. When the Police Service moved from Young Street, the 695 Prince Street building was shared with the Power Corporation. In 1975 the Power Corporation moved to other quarters, and the Police Service took over the entire main floor of the building. In 1990 this site was designated an Historic Site. A commemorative plaque is displayed on the South side of the building.

On September 4th, 1996 ground breaking ceremonies were held, and a new modern facility was begun, to house the Police Service. The old Colchester Academy, which had stood on the site, was demolished to make way for the new construction. The building was completed in 1997 and the move to the new location at 776 Prince Street, was made in October of 1997. The Grand Opening ceremonies were held on October 29, 1997. Ceremonies included a symbolic march by the members from the old police facility to the new facility.

The Police Service has grown from the original two officers in 1875, to its present staff of 53 police officers and civilian staff.

The following members have served as Chiefs of the Truro Police Service.

• Chief James MacKenzie 1875 - 1892
• Chief John Waller 1892 - 1917
• Chief Jack Fraser 1918 - 1953
• Chief Wyman Smith 1953 - 1955
• Chief William MacLean 1955 - 1974
• Chief Alonzo Murray 1974 - 1995
• Chief Kenneth MacLean 1996 - 2008
• Chief David MacNeil - 2008 to present

Cst. John Campbell JOHNSON  was killed in the line of duty in December 1950.

He fell from the rear of a paddy wagon which was responding to a call about a street fight.  Cst. Johnson is the first member of the Truro Police Service to die in the line of duty.  The community room at the Truro Police Service is dedicated in his honor.