Posted on June 24: Hamilton City Police honours McMaster security services director

[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Ron_Thorn_6.jpg” caption=”Ron Thorn, Brian Mullan “]When director of security services Ron Thorn joined McMaster 11 years ago, he had a vision to develop a strong working relationship with Hamilton City Police. Over the last decade, that relationship has been evident, particularly in a protocol he helped initiate, that in effect gave McMaster constables' official peace officer status.
This week, Hamilton Police recognized Thorn, presenting him with a plaque of appreciation at a Hamilton Police Services Board meeting.
“It's not just a tribute to me,” said Thorn, “it's nice to be recognized, but it's a tribute to those who work in the department and those who work with Hamilton City Police.”
Thorn is retiring at the end of June, after 11 years of service with McMaster Security Services. Prior to McMaster, he worked for Canada 3000 Security Services for 10 years, following 25 years as an RCMP officer.
“He's been a true professional,” says Hamilton Police inspector Robert Buck, the official liaison between McMaster security and Hamilton police. “He's been really instrumental in shaping the working relationship between McMaster security and Hamilton police.”
Thorn helped establish a protocol between Hamilton Police and McMaster Security, a working agreement that gives McMaster officers special constable status, including power of arrest. Under the protocol, McMaster security officers are sworn peace officers – appointed under the authority of the Ontario Police Services Act. Their appointments give them the powers of a peace officer and enable them to enforce the Criminal Code of Canada, federal and provincial statutes and municipal bylaws on the University campus.
Photo caption: Hamilton Chief of Police Brian Mullan, right, presents Thorn with a gift, thanking him for his dedicated service to the University and his co-operation with Hamilton Police Service.