Police Service Board appoints Ahmad Salhia as new YRP Deputy Chief

July 16, 2026 · 0 Comments

York Regional Police Superintendent Ahmad Salhia is the force’s newest Deputy Chief following his appointment by the York Regional Police Services Board, effective Wednesday.

In a statement, the Board said Deputy Chief Designate Salhia comes into the role with nearly 25 years of policing experience, most recently as the YRP’s Superintendent of Executive Services.

“He has provided strategic leadership overseeing the organization’s Strategic Services, Business Intelligence and Data Analytics, Quality Assurance, and Marketing, Communications and Brand functions, helping to advance innovation, organizational performance and public trust,” said the Board in a statement. “Throughout his career, Deputy Chief Designate Salhia has championed innovation, evidence-based policing and meaningful community engagement. While in command of the Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau, he oversaw complex investigations targeting firearms trafficking, organized crime and drug enforcement. He also played a key role in developing collaborative approaches to addressing substance use, gang prevention and community safety through partnerships with municipal, provincial and community organizations.”

Salhia’s appointment comes quick on the heels of Aurora’s Paulo Da Silva assuming the role of York Regional Police Chief last month following the retirement of Jim MacSween.

Following Salhia’s appointment, the new Chief saluted his new Deputy.

“I am pleased to welcome Deputy Chief Designate Salhia to our Executive Leadership Team,” said Chief Da Silva. “Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, sound judgement, and an unwavering commitment to our members and the communities we serve.

“He is a respected and trusted leader who leads with integrity, builds trusted relationships, and inspires confidence through collaboration, professionalism, and accountability. His extensive investigative and operational experience, strategic perspective, and genuine commitment to service excellence will be invaluable as we continue to meet evolving needs of our growing and diverse communities.

“I have every confidence that he will make a significant contribution to our service as we continue delivering the exceptional policing our communities expect and deserve.”

In addition to his role as Superintendent, the Deputy Chief Designate has previously served as Inspector of the YRP’s #4 District (Vaughan).

“Under his leadership, the district implemented initiatives recognized both provincially and internationally, including strategies to combat auto theft and illegal car rallies,” said the Board. “He currently serves as Senior Sponsor and Co-Chair of the York Regional Police Interfaith Council. He co-chairs the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police Substance Advisory Committee, where he has helped shape provincial approaches to substance use, diversion and prevention while strengthening partnerships with health, Indigenous and community organizations.”

He also serves as Vice Chair on the Board of the Aurora-based Addiction Services of Central Ontario.

“I am honoured by the opportunity to serve as Deputy Chief of York Regional Police,” said Deputy Chief Designate Salhia. “I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me by the Police Service Board. It is a privilege to support Chief Da Silva and to work alongside the Executive Leadership Team to ensure our members are supported, healthy, and prepared to protect York Region. I look forward to collaborating with our internal associations, our strong community partners, and our residents as we continue to build a safe, inclusive, and thriving community. Together, we will strengthen public trust, support our members, and deliver exceptional policing services.”

By Brock Weir
Editor
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter