Vancouver police inspector wins national honour from Governor General

VANCOUVER – A Vancouver police inspector who helped develop counter-terrorism plans nationally and target prolific-property offenders locally has earned one of the country’s highest honours.

Inspector Bob Stewart, a 35-year member of the Vancouver Police Department, has received the Order of Merit of the Police Forces from Governor General David Johnston.

The award was created in 2000 and recognizes “conspicuous merit and exceptional service” by police officers whose contributions beyond the protection of the community.

Vancouver police say Stewart brought in a chronic offender program to the department that focused on harm-reduction by targeting prolific property offenders.

They say he was also part of a research team that helped create the National Counter Terrorism Plan, and testified before Senate and House of Commons’ committees on counter terrorism and organized crime.

Stewart’s grandfather, father and wife also served long careers with the Vancouver police, his son has just joined the force, and his brother has just retired from the Victoria Police Department after 28 years.