Winnipeg City Hall Got It Right: Gene Bowers Sworn In As City’s Top Cop

Winnipeg officially swore in Gene Bowers as the city’s 19th Chief of Police Monday afternoon, marking a significant moment in the city’s law enforcement history. Bowers, who has been with the Winnipeg Police Service for 36 years, had been serving as acting chief for over a year following the retirement of his predecessor Smyth. His appointment comes at a crucial time when Winnipeg is grappling with soaring crime rates, ongoing concerns about community safety, and increasing pressure for transparency in policing.

Bowers is no stranger to the challenges facing the city. Having worked in nearly every position within the force—from beat cop to leadership roles—he brings a depth of experience few can match. His work with the RCMP’s D Division adds another layer to his expertise, offering a broader understanding of federal law enforcement operations and how they intersect with municipal policing. Yet, beyond his resume, what makes his appointment stand out is his deep-rooted connection to Winnipeg and its people. He has worked extensively with Indigenous communities, understands the complexities of mental health issues through personal experience, and has built a reputation as a leader who listens.

“I am committed to working closely with Indigenous leaders and community members to promote healing, understanding, and a path toward true reconciliation. Meaningful and positive change can only be achieved when we work together in partnership with the communities we have sworn to serve and protect.” said Bowers

His leadership begins as Winnipeg continues to battle high crime rates. The city recorded 45 homicides in 2023, placing Manitoba among the provinces with the highest homicide rates in the country. While there was a decline in 2024, with 35 homicides reported, the urgency to address violent crime remains. Winnipeg’s police force has also faced challenges regarding public trust, calls for greater accountability, and the need for more proactive strategies to prevent crime rather than just respond to it.

With a Chief of Police who understands the importance of youth activity, Winnipeg has an opportunity to push for real change. As many people may not know, Bowers coached youth sports and was quite the soccer coach, giving him firsthand insight into how structured activities keep kids safe and engaged. He knows the significance of investing in programs that provide young people with purpose and direction. This is why it’s crucial for the city, the province, and the federal government to step up—reopening community centers, expanding school programs, and making recreational spaces more accessible. These are the initiatives that deter crime before it starts. With Bowers at the helm, there is real potential for a stronger push toward youth engagement, ensuring Winnipeg prioritizes the next generation in its efforts to create a safer city.

His appointment also brings renewed hope for a police force that must navigate complex issues, from homelessness to drug-related crimes to mental health crises. Winnipeg’s city government has long been criticized for its lack of transparency, poor handling of major social issues, and questionable spending priorities. Bowers will need the full support of City Hall, the provincial government, and even federal resources to ensure that policing strategies align with broader community solutions.

Leadership in law enforcement is never without its obstacles, and Bowers will face his share of challenges. There will be bumps along the road, scrutiny over policy decisions, and inevitable crises that will test his ability to lead. But for the first time in a long while, Winnipeg City Hall and Mayor Gillingham got something right. His experience, community ties, and fresh approach to policing set the stage for a different kind of leadership—one that acknowledges that crime reduction is a long-term effort requiring coordination beyond just law enforcement. The city cannot afford to sit back and expect immediate results, but if real change is going to happen, it starts with a leader who understands the depth of the problem and is willing to tackle it head-on.