Chief Da Silva sworn in as Chief of York Regional Police

Newly minted Chief Paulo Da Silva began his policing career in 1993 and joined York Regional Police in 1997.

Now in his 32nd year of service, he was sworn in as Chief on June 29, 2026.

Throughout his career, Da Silva has built a reputation for community-focused policing, innovation and professional development. He is recognized for fostering inclusive workplaces, building high-performing teams and strengthening partnerships that support safer communities.

In his most recent role as Deputy Chief, he led York Regional Police’s Community Safety Branch, overseeing frontline policing operations across all five districts and three sub-stations throughout the region.

Da Silva has also played a key role in advancing policing innovation across the organization. He led the implementation and expansion of the CCTV Community Camera Program and Automated Licence Plate Recognition technology, and spearheaded major modernization initiatives including the Community Safety Data Portal, the P25 Voice Radio System Initiative and the Connected Officer Program, which equipped every frontline member with a smartphone. He also oversaw the implementation of electronic note-taking, the Digital Evidence Management System and the Strategic Technology Framework.

Photo: Former Chief Jim MacSween passes the ceremonial sword to YRP’s new Chief Paulo Da Silva to officiate the change in command. (YRP image)