(MIDLAND, ON) The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has announced the appointment of Inspector Russell “Russ” Elliott as the new Detachment Commander of the Southern Georgian Bay OPP.
OPP Central Region Superintendent Coyer Yateman emphasized the strengths Inspector Elliott brings to the detachment:
“Inspector Russ Elliott is a dedicated, people‑centered leader who has demonstrated unwavering commitment to public safety and community well‑being in his previous roles. A proven and results‑driven collaborator, Inspector Elliott’s diverse and significant experience will create meaningful, sustainable, and positive impacts to the communities he now serves as he assumes the role of Southern Georgian Bay Detachment Commander.”
Inspector Elliott brings more than two decades of diverse policing experience to the role and is regarded as a steady, trusted, and people‑centered professional, with a balanced leadership style. His commitment to public service and collaborative problem‑solving will support continued engagement and strong community partnerships across Southern Georgian Bay.
Inspector Elliott began his career with the OPP in 2002 at the Armstrong Detachment in North West Region. He has held a wide range of operational and leadership roles across the province, including frontline policing, investigative responsibilities, and supervisory duties, along with time spent in the Community Street Crime Unit and the Criminal Investigations Branch. His career has also included a five‑year tenure as Inspector and Coordinator of Risk Management for the OPP.
He holds a diploma in Construction Engineering Technology from George Brown College and is a graduate of the Rotman School of Management (University of Toronto). His commitment to service has been recognized through several honours, including the Ontario Amethyst Award for Community Service, an Accolade Award for Team Investigation, the Eric Neystedt Accolade Award, and a Commissioner’s Citation for Lifesaving.
Reflecting on his appointment, Inspector Elliott said:
“I am truly honoured to serve as the Detachment Commander for Southern Georgian Bay. This region has been my family’s home for many years, and I am committed to supporting the dedicated officers and community partners who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe. I look forward to building on our strong foundation of professionalism, collaboration, and public service.”
A long‑time resident of Simcoe County, Inspector Elliott is dedicated to serving the residents and visitors of Midland, Penetanguishene, and the Townships of Tay, Tiny, and Georgian Bay, and strengthening partnerships across all communities within the Southern Georgian Bay detachment area.
