Treaty Three Police Service Mourns the Passing of First Chief of Police, Brian Rupert
FROM: General Headquarters
(Kenora) – It is with great sadness that Treaty Three Police Service (T3PS) announces the passing of J. Brian Rupert, the first Chief of Police of T3PS and father of Deputy Chief Tricia Rupert. His leadership and dedication were instrumental in establishing T3PS, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to guide the organization today.
Born in 1948 in Pine Falls, Manitoba, and a proud member of Saugeen First Nation, Chief Rupert dedicated his life to public safety. His career began in 1967 with the Royal Canadian Air Force Military Police before joining the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) in 1970 as one of the first Indigenous OPP Constables. He rose through the ranks, becoming the first Indigenous Non-Commissioned Officer in the OPP to be promoted to Inspector.
Between 2000 and 2002, Chief Rupert was instrumental in developing Treaty Three Police Service. Working with Ogichidaa Joseph (Tom) Red Thunder Boy, who served as Board President for seven years, and a Treaty #3 Chiefs Committee, he secured funding from federal and provincial governments to establish a stand-alone police service for Treaty #3 communities. He also oversaw the design and funding of the T3PS headquarters in Kenora.
As Chief of Police from 2002 to 2008, he expanded the service from 35 to 68 officers and introduced the Emergency Response Team. Despite challenges such as financial constraints and misconceptions about Indigenous policing, he remained committed to a professional and well-trained service. His dedication earned him the Police Exemplary Medal, and his contributions continue to have a lasting impact.
“Chief Rupert was a trailblazer in Indigenous policing and a respected leader whose efforts laid the foundation for Treaty Three Police Service,” said Cheryl Gervais, Chief of Police at T3PS. “His commitment to public safety and Treaty #3 communities will not be forgotten.”
As a mark of respect, flags at all T3PS facilities will be flown at half-mast in his honor.
T3PS extends its deepest condolences to Deputy Chief Rupert and her family during this difficult time.
Treaty Three Police Service is a self-administered policing entity under the First Nations Policing Program in Canada, responsible for full policing duties within the Treaty #3 territory.
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