Paul Cook named as Calgary's interim police chief

Supt. Paul Cookhas been appointed as the interim leader of Calgary's Police Servicebeginning Friday.

He will take over for Rick Hanson, who announced he was stepping down earlier this month.

Cook was selected by city councilto lead the service while the police commission chooses a more permanent post for the position. That process will likely take several months.

"He knows the activities of the chief's office," said Hanson."He's got a great relationship with the deputies, the superintendents, as well as with the police commission.He's just the perfect person to step in and be the chief while the selection process is underway."

Cook has been with Calgary policefor 25 years, working in almost every area of the service including patrol, district commander, support section and is a certified hostage negotiator and incident commander. He's currently in the role of executive officer and intergovernmental affairs reporting directly to the chief.

'Very sound, ethical decision'

During theselection process, the commission decided that anyone who wants to apply to be chief would not be allowed to serve in the acting role.

"I'm really super pleased with the commission," said Hanson."That is a very sound,ethical decision and I'm just thrilled that they made that decision."

He won't single anyone out for an endorsement, but he believes the next chief should come from within CPS.

The 60-year-old is retiring on Friday after 40years in policing. Party sources confirmed toCBC that he will run for the Progressive Conservatives in Calgary-Cross.

The still-serving chief says he won't confirm his future plans while he's still in uniform.

Hanson says although Cook has the support of the service, he'll be available if needed.

"I'm always a phone call away if he ever decides he wants to take me out for coffee," said Hanson.

"I will make him pay because us pensioners can't afford to buy other people coffee," he joked.