Former VicPD Media Spokesperson Mike Russell, who left the force in August last year to work for BC Transit, has confirmed that he will be returning to VicPD.

Well, looks like the cat is out of the bag. Saee you soon @vicpdcanada https://t.co/ySzoTohRTN — Mike Russell (@CommunityMike) February 11, 2016

When Cst. Mike Russell joined VicPD, the department did not even have a social media position. Thanks to his hard work, fast and personal online responses and general approachability, Victorians became connected with their police force as never before.

As he wrote in his outgoing letter on VicPD back in August 2015:

“From launching Canada’s first interactive mobile police app, to returning recovered stolen property with community partnerships with UsedVictoria.com and Pinterest, ‘busting’ would-be pot buyers on reddit, and creating a real sense of community, the last five years has flown by.”

In late 2015, Mike Russell appeared on Ted Talks where he outlined his community-based approach to policing.

It is unknown at this time what position Cst. Mike Russell will take upon his return to VicPD.