10 questions with DRPS deputy chief Sherry Whiteway
Thu Dec 13, 2007

Deputy Chief Sherry Whiteway of the Durham Regional Police Service has had a long career in policing. She made history early this year when she became the first female deputy chief of the DRPS. She took the time recently to answer our 10 questions:

1. Were you surprised that you became a deputy chief of the Durham Regional Police Service

Surprised, definitely, thrilled, overwhelmed and on cloud nine, to be specific. I was truly humbled by the congratulatory messages from across the service and the community. I believe the chief, the board, my family and fellow colleagues had more faith in my abilities than I did. I had only been in my past position, as superintendent, for nine months, when I took my new oath of office. Our former chief, Vern White, brought an energy and change of direction to Durham Regional Police Service. Through his mentorship, support and wisdom, I achieved what would have been, only a dream, the position of deputy chief.

2. What made you want to get into policing

From a small girl, watching my father come home in his uniform and listening to his stories of helping people, I knew some day I would follow in his footsteps. I applied to Metropolitan Toronto Police Force, as a cadet, right after high school. When not successful, I entered into the computer and banking fields. The draw towards policing became greater in my mid-twenties. I followed my desires and joined DRPS. I wanted to make a difference in people's lives, be there in the time of need and help those less fortunate.

3. What was the biggest challenge for women when you first joined the force

I have to say acceptance from the men and, in some instances, the community. I was only the tenth or eleventh woman working in Durham in 1980. Just prior to that, females wore skirts and carried their guns in issued purses. I absolutely loved front-line policing. It didn't take too long to prove that I could do the job, very effectively. I remember the first night shift out on my own, arresting an intoxicated male, who was extremely resistant. While I thought my backup was en route, I struggled with the defiant drunk, putting him on the ground and successfully handcuffing him. Once I had him lodged in the rear of my cruiser, my backup applauded my efforts. They had stood back critiquing my ability. That first instance broke the ice and paved the way to my acceptance.

4. How has policing changed for women over the past few decades

Fortunately, women are now recognized for their strengths and abilities within a once male-dominated profession. Take my new role for example, 30, 20, even 10 years ago, it would have been unheard of. For one reason or another, progress within policing was a little slower than within the private sector. There had only been one female rise above the rank of staff sergeant, prior to my promotion in 2000. Inspector Nancy Nicholas led the way for women, in both investigations and leadership. Opportunities within DRPS are many for both women and men today. Frontline Patrol, Criminal Investigations, Intelligence, Forensic Identification, Nuclear Security and Professional Standards are all areas where our females play a productive and active role. Our recruitment and promotional processes have developed to eliminate gender-bias, recognizing the need to develop future leadership. Last year, of the five newly promoted Inspectors, two were female. Both had worked extremely hard in their contributions to policing, receiving awards from outside the service as well.

5. Do you feel you are a role model as the first female deputy chief

Yes, I believe the position of deputy chief is a role model. There are two deputy chiefs with DRPS, Chuck Mercier and myself. My counterpart is looked up to and recognized, both internally and externally, for his vast experience in Major Crime and commitment to the community. The fact that I am a female, I suppose adds an additional element, however, I have always strived to do my absolute best, putting my gender aside. If the new recruit, the seasoned officer or community member views me as a role model, I am honoured. I will share with you a note, which was slipped into my purse, the day I interviewed for the position:

"Mom, today is one day I know has the greatest significance to you over the span of your life. By taking on such a monstrous task of the deputy chief, you have displayed to me how much a person you really are. You are the greatest woman I have ever known and most likely ever will. The outcome of this process will never change my view of you and no matter what, I will always stare in amazement and awe at your strength and determination. I want you to go into this final meeting with your heart guiding you and speak about your true values, goals and beliefs. Those will lead you to the next level. You are my role model. Love you Mom."

So in answer to your question, yes, I am a role model in the eyes of my 18-year-old son.

6. What advice would you give for young women considering a role as a police officer

Be yourself, don't change for anyone, never compromise your values, remember what attracted you to policing and enjoy. Although applicable to any potential young recruit, if you follow that advice you will enjoy a fulfilling, exciting, rewarding profession. Specifically for young women, you can do it and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. I started at 25 years of age, with two small children. While the challenges of balancing shift work, family and career caused me to learn how to juggle, those challenges were well worth the efforts. If I had it to do all over again, I would. My eldest daughter followed my footsteps, commencing with the OPP in 1995. She has since joined DRPS, working in Oshawa. The mentoring I have provided her was very similar -- be true to yourself, don't lose your femininity and have the courage to do what is right.

7. What steps is the DRPS taking to become more diversified

I am a member of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police Diversity Committee. We review and recommend recruiting, promotion and retention standards for across Ontario, setting benchmarks for best practices. DRPS created an intensive 5-year Diversity Strategic Plan, which outlines goals and timelines to be met. This year has seen the creation of a Diversity Officer position to promote inroads within our multicultural communities. Our Human Resources Unit is continually trying innovative approaches to attract diverse cultural backgrounds and women into our service. Police Services across the country are experiencing similar challenges. We attend various job fairs in culturally diverse communities, outreach within the colleges and advertise extensively. Our HR Branch offers practice preparation testing dedicated to female potential candidates. We currently sit with 18 per cent female membership, which is slightly above the provincial average.

8. What is the toughest thing about being a police officer

For the frontline officer, it is the balancing of emotions; control, compassion, anger, complacency and fear. The unknown and the unexpected, while answering the call to duty, is also a balancing act; life and death; poverty and wealth; tragedy and celebration. I believe the balance of family and work is paramount. It is very easy to become so engulfed in the demands of the profession that your family suffers. We stress the need for physical and mental wellness and to achieve both, a healthy, balanced lifestyle is critical. It is difficult to work a 12-hour shift, meeting overtime and court demands, while still having the energy and time to take care of yourself. A police officer is never really off duty. Your mind, your attention to community safety and the want to help are active 24/7. For example, it is stressful enough to be investigating the lifeless body of a small child, without the guilt of having to miss your own child's birthday party or graduation. But that is the price we pay, sometimes tough, but always important. You know that, at the end of the day, no matter what you have experienced, there is the support from family, peers and friends to help ground you. A police officer can never mix up being stressed or vulnerable, as a weakness. There are professionals, such as the Critical Incident Stress Team, to assist and defuse any situation.

9. What is the best thing about being a police officer

I would suggest being a member of two strong, committed families, personal and professional. As I moved through the ranks, my span of influence and responsibility changed and grew. From helping a single youth or troubled family, to having a positive influence on a whole community, the impact is extremely rewarding. Having the ability to mentor and witness positive growth amongst our members has a long-lasting effect. The demands of the citizens we serve, new case law, shifting crime trends and changing philosophies all contribute to a learning organization. Solving the crime, making the arrest and contributing to a safer community always makes one proud and exhilarated.

10. What do you do to relax

Again, it is about balance. As a wife, mother of three and grandmother of four, time with my family is precious. Fortunately, policing runs in the family and everyone is very understanding. There is nothing more relaxing than snuggling up with the little ones and sharing family memories. My husband and I enjoy international travelling, following his year-long peacekeeping mission in Bosnia. The experience certainly opened our eyes and hearts to the needs outside Canada. But for a quick bit of relaxation, I enjoy sitting back on our Harley-Davidson and taking in the sights and scents of our countryside.