DELTA Police Department (DPD) Sgt. Katie Garcia is not your average police officer. She has gone above and beyond in a variety of different ways. Last week, the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) recognized Katie’s commitment and achievements with a Top 40 Under 40 award.
The IACP’s award program is designed to recognize 40 law enforcement professionals under the age of 40 from around the world who demonstrate leadership and exemplify commitment to their profession. The IACP has 33,000 members from 170 different countries around the world. The award considers demonstrated values, a commitment to law enforcement, and a capacity for leadership.
Katie grew up and went to school in Delta. She connected with her School Liaison Officer and began volunteering with the DPD while in high school. She obtained an undergraduate degree in sociology and an associate degree in criminal justice. Katie played and excelled in softball, an environment that taught her team and interpersonal skills. And then in 2012, Katie joined the DPD.
At the DPD, Katie has worked in Patrol, Drug Section, and Major Crimes. She has field trained, led teams, and was promoted to sergeant earlier in 2023. Katie has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, displaying outstanding leadership attributes and dedication to her colleagues and community. Her exceptional ability to collaborate, take initiative for major projects and willingness to share knowledge has helped the DPD grow. Her exceptional work is positively changing the culture of policing.
George V. Harvie, Chair of the Delta Police Board and Mayor of Delta, said, “Katie exemplifies the strength and courage that it takes to be a Delta Police officer. Her unwavering commitment to her values is a prime example of why the DPD continues to deliver excellence in policing. On behalf of Delta Council and the Delta Police Board, congratulations and thank you for your continued dedication to keeping our community safe.”
As a member of the 2SLGBTQI+ community, Katie is an advocate and an ally for diversity initiatives. Recently she founded the DPD’s Proud Initiative, which provides an inclusive environment to support DPD’s 2SLGBTQI+ members while increasing positive police connections with the 2SLGBTQI+ community within Delta. Her lived experience as a 2SLGBTQI+ community member has been instrumental in driving positive change both internally and externally.
Katie has also participated in forming the DPD’s first-ever formalized mentorship program. The program’s goal is to establish a collaborative work environment through mentorship, providing both personal and professional development for all members of the DPD.
She is part of the British Columbia Women in Law Enforcement (BCWLE), where she is now in her second term as a board member for women in law enforcement across the province.
And if that’s not enough, Katie volunteers as a softball coach and a soccer coach in her off-duty time.
Her involvement and commitment to these projects have contributed to fostering a positive, caring, and inclusive culture within the DPD and the community.
