Staff Sergeant Kim Rutherford became Port Hardy’s Detachment Commander in September of 2024.
Rutherford oversees the operations that serve the First Nations of Gwa'sala-Nakwaxda'xw, Kwakiutl, Quatsino, and the communities of Port Alice and Port Hardy.
With nearly 22 years of service with the RCMP, she has served several communities and units which include Ridge Meadows, the Integrate Homicide Investigation team, Sea to Sky – Whistler, Burnaby, Nootka Sound, Campbell River and now Port Hardy and Port Alice.
"All of these posts have provided me with many incredible experiences and more importantly rich friendships that I have carried forward with me to this day," stated Rutherford. "Throughout my career I have had supervisors and colleagues who have been so supportive, knowledgeable and interested in contributing positively to the public, our organization and to my experience as a police officer. This career has enabled me to see our country, coast to coast, work with hundreds of people and find ways to give back that has enriched my professional experience. My goal for this next adventure in Port Hardy is to ensure my colleagues here have the same support and opportunities to achieve their goals that I am so grateful to have had myself."
As much as this detachment is considered remote, Rutherford said that it does not feel remote.
"We have all the amenities needed to meet one’s needs and fill our days while having the space to roam and explore without crowds and traffic."
Policing in the North Island communities is unique because it offers response on both land and water providing police officers who work here a breadth of experience in marine operations, off-road vehicles and search and rescue.
"It is a busy detachment with opportunities to develop investigative skills and make meaningful community connections," noted Rutherford.
Port Hardy is located on the northern tip of Vancouver Island and know for its rugged coastal scenery and a place of calm and tranquil beauty. The communities the RCMP serve here have a rich history and strong cultural ties to the land and sea.
"We enjoy strong connections and support from those we serve. I adore the familiarity and kindness of the small communities. Everyone here has been incredibly welcoming and have made me feel right at home when I walked through the doors," added Rutherford.
