William J. McCormack

William J McCormack was Chief of Police of the Metro Toronto Police from 1989 to 1995. He succeeded Jack Marks.

McCormack was born in Mauritius and served in the Korean War before moving to Canada.

McCormack is the son of a British Colonial Police Colonel who was decorated as a "Member of the British Empire" by King George for his work with prison reform and childrens polio.

He served as a Constable in Bermuda before coming to Canada and joining the Metropolitan Toronto Police Force. He soon stood out as an astute detective and rose through the ranks.

McCormack was one of a few Catholics on the force who started the annual "Communion Breakfast", which continues today.

His varied background and impressive communication skills made him the perfect candidate for the head of the first ever Public Affairs Unit in Toronto.His perceived charisma and style soon got him noticed by brass and press alike.

When he was made Chief of Police he was touted as a "Cops Cop" and the "Silver Fox". His reputation as a gentleman carried him through difficult political times dealing with both a unfriendly Police Board as well as a NDP government which in the early 1990s slashed police resources.

McCormack left his office after a temultious tenure but he had won the hearts of the men and women of the Toronto Police Force as well as the support of many citizens.

Although the McCormack name has recently come under investigation, sources close to them feel the degree of this situation has been blown out of proportion in the media to suit political ends.

William McCormack served his community with pride and grace for more than 40 years. His family members continue this rich tradition.